Hawaii isn’t typically known as a budget-friendly vacation spot. It’s easy to spend a small fortune on even a modest trip to this Pacific island paradise. Planning a discounted itinerary takes more effort than it might for other U.S. destinations, but with some strategy and flexibility, it can be done.
On a bittersweet note, Hawaii’s tourism economy has faced challenges in 2025. A significant drop in international visitors, particularly from Japan, has led to lower demand. As a result, flight prices and especially hotel rates are a bit more reasonable than they were last year. That said, Hawaii is still far from cheap.
Airfare
Hawaiian Airlines offers some reasonably priced fares if you book in advance, especially for direct flights from many West Coast cities. Last year, there were several nonstop routes from cities in the Midwest, like my hometown of Austin, Texas — but unfortunately, those have been cut.
Roundtrip fares for discount flights in the middle of the week are around $600. Flying on weekends, however, can easily push ticket prices above $1,000.
Hotels in Hawaii
While airfare hasn’t changed much from last year, hotel prices have dropped noticeably. In 2024, we stayed in a mid-range, four-star hotel on Waikiki Beach for $180 a night. This year, we found a place with a kitchenette for just over $100 per night.
The most affordable lodging options are closer to Diamond Head, but you’re still only a few blocks from Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of major shopping centers and restaurants.
If you’re traveling solo, hostels near Diamond Head are a great budget option. One hostel offers bunk beds in shared rooms for as little as $24 per night. There’s also a Tokyo-style capsule hostel where you get a private pod for under $50 — stacked like bunk beds but offering a bit more privacy.
Another adventurous option is camping. Hawaii’s weather is ideal for it, and there are campgrounds near the outskirts of Honolulu. Getting your gear to the islands might be tricky, but one creative alternative is a VW camper van being rented out on Maui as an Airbnb.
Food and Drink
This is where the sticker shock really hits. Food and drinks in Hawaii are significantly more expensive than on the mainland. Expect to pay $5 for a Diet Coke or a basic coffee, and $15 or more for a beer at a beachfront bar.
Your best bet is to avoid tourist traps and seek out local eateries off the main strip. Many hotels offer kitchenettes — taking advantage of this can seriously trim your food budget. Bonus: it’s a great excuse to eat healthier (or at least skip the overpriced cocktails).
Transportation
If you’re staying in Honolulu, there’s no real need to rent a car. Most of Waikiki is walkable, and Uber rides are cheap due to the area’s compact size — just a few miles long and about 10 blocks wide.
If you want to explore the rest of Oahu, consider renting a car for just a day. We opted for a bus tour around the island instead, which was included in our City Pass (more on that below). I’d also recommend resisting the temptation to rent a moped — they look fun but aren’t especially practical or safe.
On the Big Island, however, a rental car is a must — preferably a Jeep or 4×4 if you plan to explore rugged terrain. While standard car rentals are fairly affordable, 4x4s are noticeably pricier. Camping is also more of an option here, especially for adventurous travelers.
Note: Hilo, the biggest city on the Big Island, isn’t much of a tourist hub. The major resorts are on the other side of the island.
You can fly between islands for about $50–$75 one way, with flights running almost hourly. A local even mentioned it’s not too difficult — or expensive — to ferry a car between islands. If I manage to bring a 4×4 from the mainland next year, I’ll definitely look into that option.
City Pass
Like many major tourist destinations, Hawaii offers a City Pass that can help you save money on attractions — especially on Oahu. Most City Pass deals are focused around Honolulu and include access to a wide range of activities, from cultural experiences to water sports.
A typical City Pass includes a luau at one of two locations, as well as options like:
- Bus tour around the island
- Surfboard rental
- Snorkeling trips
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
- Boat excursions
- Admission to museums and Pearl Harbor
It’s one of the best-value City Passes I’ve found. Just be aware: unlike in other cities, most Hawaii activities require reservations, and you’ll often need to put down a deposit with your credit card. If you don’t show up, that deposit will be charged — so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii will probably never be a true “cheap” vacation spot — but with some creative planning, flexibility, and the right expectations, you can enjoy a memorable island adventure without breaking the bank.