Updated January 2018. It’s always easy to get caught in Hawaii’s tourism money trap. Here are 15 creative ways that run the gamut to help you reduce costs. Save on airfare, accommodations, ground transportation and on popular activities. Plus some updated tips and tricks that you may not have thought of. We look forward to more ideas from our savvy readers who are often the inspiration for own money saving ideas.
1. Travel during the off-season when you can. One of our top tips. Even coming in the shoulder seasons, think 2nd half of August, can result in far lower costs across the board, plus reduced crowding. The most expensive times to visit Hawaii are over the Christmas holidays, followed by summer (June 15 to August 15), then spring break.
2. Plan far ahead for peak seasons or be spontaneous and wait for Hawaii deals. Everything you might want to know and more is found in our Cheapest Time to Fly to Hawaii post. Airlines know that most people plan 3-6 months in advance. If you are not in peak season, our best advice is to wait it out for Hawaii deals that may happen within one to three months before travel. You can always have pre-arranged car and hotel reservations that can be cancelled.
3. Look for vacation packages. This is an area where we’ll take your guidance. Some people prefer the ease of packages, but do they really save money? Check carefully to be sure.
4. Consider travel insurance, whether or not you buy it. If you do, don’t go through an airline, tour company or cruise ship. Read how travel insurance just saved us $600. Start shopping within a few days of making your first trip reservation as waiting results in reduced coverage. Consider how much money is at risk and how much you are willing to lose in the event of a trip cancellation, early termination or loss of luggage. Shop around for the best insurance for your specific needs and do not buy on a whim. You need to do your homework in order to avoid throwing away money and perhaps even then not getting the coverage you need.
5. Be creative in buying Hawaii activities. Go to the vendors’ website and you may find online deals for a direct booking. We have seen this many times for boat tours, restaurants. Read how we saved $144 each and had a blast using the Go Oahu card. Even get 10% off the Polynesian Cultural Center.
6. If you’re coming here to celebrate, be sure to mention it. Birthdays, honeymoons and anniversaries may all qualify for that potential upgrade or other perk. Keep in mind, however, that it doesn’t always work, and it has been tried oh so many times.
7. Check restaurant websites and Yelp too. Some restaurants have discounted menus on certain days of the week or for early diners. We’ve also found discounts and freebies for Hawaii restaurants on Yelp.
8. How far are you willing to drive to save money on airfare? Consider neighbor airports. One example is San Jose and another is San Diego. Both frequently have great Hawaii deals on airfare when compared with neighboring airports.
9. Plan a 7-Day Cruise on NCL Pride of America. See four islands and have your meals and accommodations covered in one price. We’ve done this cruise twice and loved it. The food is great overall, by the way, and I’m not easy to please.
10. Subscribe in order to track airfares changes quickly. Our Hawaii-only airfare deal reporting is the standard for Hawaii travel deals. Subscribe to our free email updates and never miss a Hawaii deal.
11. In Honolulu, if you aren’t going to rent a car, consider in advance how to get from the airport into town. The Bus is definitely the cheapest way at $2.75 if you don’t have over sized luggage. Or buy an all-day pass for just $5.50. There will be a rail system in the near future. Otherwise, our pick is Uber (which can now pick up and drop off at airports). Alternatively there are many choices of taxis, shuttles or tour buses, none of which come totally cheap. See our latest guide to cheap Hawaii car rentals.
12. Car rental prices can be all over the map. Look at our recent article Ten ways to save money on Hawaii car rentals. And by the way, don’t forget to check the gas. Our last rental came to us with a nearly empty tank, but we were so busy looking for dings that we forgot to check the gas until well after we’d left the rental lot.
13. Travel with a nylon duffel bag. Especially if you’re traveling with only a carry-on, this can be helpful when buying too much on the trip and needing to check a bag on the return. Another trick is to buy an inexpensive Rubbermaid tote and use that instead of a suitcase on the return. They are sure useful at home, and we have collected quite a number of them from this trick.
14. Hawaii is replete with wonderful and abundant free activities. Take advantage of them from hiking to beaches to incredible Hawaii sunsets.
15. Purchase a buffet breakfast at your hotel. Many Hawaii hotels offer lavish buffets where you can eat enough to only need to buy dinner. Find out in advance what’s offered. When purchased with a room rate, these can often be had at about half the cost of buying them at the restaurant once you’ve arrived.
Lauren G says
Thanks for all of your tips! I am planning our first Hawaiian vacation for the last week of May. Flying from Salt Lake City, plane tix are in the 500’s RT through my travel club. I am just overwhelmed with which island to choose! We have 2 kids, age 1 and 6. Have a suggestion on the best island for first timers with small kids? We enjoy outdoor things like hiking, but obviously can’t do things like snorkelling with a baby. Also any good pet friendly hotel recommendations? Thanks so much!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Lauren.
You can’t choose wrong. Seriously. For digging deeper and hotels, suggest the Hawaii Revealed guidebooks, which are considered the bible of Hawaii travel. Pet friendly? If you’re bringing a pet to Hawaii, that is reasonably complicated at multiple levels.
Aloha.
Lauren G says
We have a 16 year old dog that we can’t leave at home at a boarding facility because he is too old, so he will have to come with. Why do you say it’s complicated? I will definitely read that book, I think I have decided on Oahu, so much to see and Do!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Lauren.
You might start here: http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/.
Aloha.
Dawn R says
Good Morning!
I think I need to start planning for a first-time trip to Kauai- was thinking 2nd week in April, 2019….I’m soooo over-whelmed! I did a quick search and got even more scared! We have a bucket list and feel Kauai is the best island for us. Surf lessons, tube slide down the irrigation ditch, kyaking the river, authentic luau. Is there a complete guide that will answer typical questions, weather issues, as well as hotels, rentals, cars, etc that is all-inclusive that you can please reccommend? My confusion is getting the best of me! Thanks so much, this seems like the place to get real answers!
Aloha, Dawn
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Dawn.
Just answered your other question separately. 2nd week of April is good – just after spring break. Definitely suggest you get the Kauai Revealed guidebook (electronic or print) in regards to your questions.
Aloha.
Sarah says
Hi, My hubby and I are planning to come in May, seems like a good time. flying from Detroit though is really pricey. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks in advance for your advice.
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Sarah.
There are $650 to $750 RT fares in April that should soon extend through May. That’s about as good as it will get. Keep checking on those to show up any time. The lower price has longer duration, as is often the case.
Aloha
Lorie says
Hello! Thanks so much for the tips you mentioned. We’re planning to go during the peak season this year from June 17- 23rd and wanted to stay in Aulani Disney Hotel. I have to kids ages 8 & 11. Will that even be worth booking that trip there? Or are there any other hotels as good as Disney Aulani that will offer the same family kids friendly activities? Is Costco where I can get the best hawaii package deal? It is our first time going to Hawaii so we would like to make this as special and memorable as possible. We’ll be celebrating our 20th anniversary and my daughter’s grad.
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Lorie.
A lot of this is outside our focus area. One suggestion is to definitely get a hold of the Oahu Revealed guidebook where you’re sure to find a lot of answers.
A few comments. First, Hawaii is for kids of all ages and you can’t really go wrong in terms of where you stay. You’re in for a great time! Some people love Aulani, and Disney moreover, so we’re taking nothing away from that.
Regarding Costco, not sure it will save you money, although you may find it more convenient. In the direction of packages, suggest you also compare Pleasant Holidays and Hawaiian Airlines packages.
Aloha.
Nicole says
I wish I had a crystal ball! Usually we buy our high peak June-July airfare in the fall for LAX to Kauai but waited. It’s higher than I’ve ever paid. When do these dates “sell out” for air fare? Should I risk waiting until March to buy end of June tickets? Right now they are $847 RT. Thank you in advance, love this site!!!!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Nicole.
LA to Kauai has been very competitive lately, so this summer “might” yield better than expected results, if you can afford to wait. On the other hand, you said it – it can easily sell out for those dates, so it is hard to suggest which way to go. It depends in part on your threshold for the unknown. If you’re set on your dates and Kauai, then you may have to bite the bullet, and then yes, March might be about as long as you dare wait. Prices right now in the $700’s to $800’s aren’t unusual. They’re just painful.
Aloha.
Karen says
Aloha!
My husband and I are planning to go to Big island on our anniversary in December 2018. When is the best time to buy our plane ticket?
Thank you. GREAT WEBSITE!😊
Karen
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Karen.
Thank you. For travel completed in first two weeks of December, wait until sales are announced – perhaps towards end of summer. If for holidays, either buy now or take your chances that you won’t be going. Everything will sell out at the holidays.
Aloha.
John Y says
Hi Casey – “The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook” has proven to be an indispensable and reliable tool for my wife and I with regard to beaches, restaurants, hiking trails, and the like. It is divided into sections representing the geographic areas of the island – South Shore (Poipu; Koloa, etc., the “sunny side”); East Shore (Kapa’a, Lihue); West Shore (Waimea; Hanapepe) and North Shore (principally Hanalei). We base in the Poipu every other Feb and drive to other locales from there (all distances relatively short). 90% of the island is preserved in its natural state, so don’t expect the string of Walmarts and McDonalds like you see on Oahu or Maui though Lihue does have all the modern big box store conveniences like the fast food joints and a Costco and good supermarkets. The first time I saw Kauai, I thought I had indeed landed in Jurassic Park (for which certain scenes where filmed there). But the real flavor of the island is found in the small towns and backroads. Our short list would include the weekly farmer’s market in Koloa that features fresh fruits of all kinds and colors and if you get there early enough – you can select fresh orchids from a local grower for about $10 for most amazing bouquet that will last your entire vacation. When in Koloa, one block from the farmer’s market, stop at the Big Save and choose from over two dozen daily made fresh tuna pokes in the deli case r grab a local $5 blue plate special from the Sueoka Store food stand window and go across the street to the small city park and settle in for a take out picnic. Other recommendations – while Chicago and New York may think they have cornered the outdoor haute cuisine hot dog cart market, Puka Dog in a small outdoor shopping area in Poipu is an experience not be be missed, with their unique wrap around buns grilled from the inside out and wonderful selection of island sauces like fresh fruit relish or mango. Other choices in Poipu area would be cold beer and burger at the bar or tropical table at Keoki’s Paradise wonderful open air tiki bar/restaurant. For a great view and cup of coffee, take a morning stoll to Poipu’s Grand Hyatt and grab a Spam Musubi, sushi roll at the Seaview Terrace coffee bar. For fine dining, we reserved a sunset table for 4 at Eating House 1849 in the Kukui’ula shopping area and were rewarded with excellent drinks, cuisine and service. Kukui’ula is also home to a Wednesday evening farmer’s market featuring a number of fresh made hot items and fruit drink specials among the array of fresh produce purveyors. So this is just a look at one side of the island – there are natural treasures all along the north and west shores including the magnificent Napali Trail and Waimea Canyon – happy adventuring !!!
Colin says
Hi, first of all great website for info and tips. I am from England (UK) and we have 3 weeks in sunny California booked for August 9 to 30. I would love to book a surprise week in Hawaii from San Fran area around Aug 13 and hopefully fly back to Seattle so we can drive down the coast over 7-10 days back to SF (Oakland airport is our arrival/departure airport). As its only 7 nights I’m thinking to just spend time on Oahu as really want to see Pearl Harbor, filming site for J.Park and the beauty of the island. I’d love to see another island but maybe not worth 3 or 4 nights on 2?? Also, I see you say to wait to book flights. When would you expect to see them possibly drop in price. Feb or even closer to August? And does that apply to hotels too? Lots of questions I know but thanks for any more tips 🙂
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Colin.
Thank you. Should work out and gut says you’ll see buying opportunities by spring. You can do two islands in a week but you lose the better part of a day changing islands. Another alternative is the NCL cruise, which will give you four islands in a week. Highly recommended for first time visitor – we’ve done it twice.
Aloha.
Davalyn B says
Aloha! We are planning to go to Maui and the Big Island this summer from Houston. How far in advance do you recommend buying our flights? And what would be the best way to plan the flights. Houston to Maui to Kona to Houston is what I’m thinking…but we are flexible! Thanks so much for any advice!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Davalyn.
If you’re talking about June through early August, the time to book everything (air, accommodations and car) is already behind you. Suggest getting on that now. If your flexible and can travel after 2nd week of August, then wait and you’ll be rewarded with better pricing.
That open jaw you suggested is definitely the best plan to avoid wasting time and money on inter-island flights.
Aloha.
Nathan says
Thanks for informative sharing. I must say that your shared information is very useful for me as well as other readers. I also have a plan to go there to enjoy my friend’s birthday party. I am so happy for it. I hope so that it will be a really great time for us and we will came back smiley faces.
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Nathan.
Enjoy your time in Hawaii!
Aloha.
Kellie says
Family of 5 rewarding our middle child’s high school graduation. Flying from Houston to the big island June 1-9. Went through a local travel agent. Our package includes a rental SUV. I’ve gone ahead already and purchased tickets for a luau and am looking at other excursions/tours. Just wondering if it’s cheaper to drive to the different locations or if it’s even possible to drive to them, ie black sand beach, volcano national park. Purchased the guide book but won’t receive for a few days.
Kay H says
You can easily drive to different tourist destinations if you have a rental, def cheaper to just pay for gas & entrance to Volcano Park. Consider diff passes into Volcano Park of which would be cheapest based on how many times you will return & glad I got lifetime Senior Pass that is no longer available. Not too hard to find your way around island & so many incredible sites to see no matter what your interests are. I am repeat visitor to Big Island so PM if you need more info.
Ann says
Thank you for this helpful information. I’m sorry that this is off topic, but I couldn’t find anywhere else to ask this. Would you be able to write an article about HART that is more recent than your 2011 article mentioning that it looked like it was going to finally happen. Our trip isn’t until 2019, but I’m wondering if the warnings about lane closings and construction from HART will still be valid. I’m also wondering if any or all of it is expected to be open by Feb 2019. The HART web site is very pretty, but as someone who has never been to Hawaii before, I am having a very hard time understanding where things are, how much the traffic will affect me, etc.
Mahalo!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Ann.
Thanks for suggestion. On list.
Aloha.
Lorie says
Traveling to Maui, Kaui & Ohau end of April into May. Traveling with my son who has life threatening food allergies. Wondering if you have any knowledge of restaurants that will cook things to accommodate him?
Thank you so much!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Lorie.
No we don’t. But what we can suggest is that you avoid hotels and restaurants, buy local food (farmers markets etc.), and stay in vacation rentals. Other than Honolulu, restaurants are generally much better on the mainland anyway, and you will save money and avoid problems. Let us know how it goes.
Aloha.
Stephanie says
Hello, I am planning a first time vacation for my family to Hawaii and planning on staying on the island of Kauai. We’re planning our vacation for the mid month of October 2018. I would like to know when you would suggest the best time to purchase plane tickets from Chicago to Kauai please.
Thank You
Stephanie
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Stephanie.
Probably 90-120 days in advance will work best.
Aloha.
Andrea says
Aloha! I am thinking of planning to visit Hawaii December 22 – 27, 2018 with my husband and 22 y/o daughter and 19 y/o son. I have been to Honolulu several times growing up but it has been about 30 years since I have been there. I cannot decide if I want to go back to Honolulu or explore a different island. Any suggestions? My family likes he hustle and bustle of a city but beings that this would be the first time for all but me, I don’t know if Honolulu is the best place to visit as a first timer since it has changed considerably since I frequented the island.
Cindy says
I’ve been with my family every year since my kids have been out of diapers and have grown into teenagers. This year we’re going to Kauai for the first time, as I finally feel like we are ready for that kind of adventure and disconnection. I feel like there is a learning curve with each island. Oahu (Honolulu) being the easiest, then the Big Island (didn’t really get into a grove there) then Maui (wonderful, but it took two trips to really figure out Maui) and now the most “Hawaiian”, Kauai.
In my opinion, Honolulu will be your best bet for a successful 1st trip with your family. It’s the most like the mainland (chain restaurants, shopping, non-death defying activities) and with modern GPS (smartphone) you should have an easy time navigating. I recommend a rental car and on the first day, drive on the Like Like Hwy to Kualoa Ranch or the Macadamia nut farm just before it. Its a breathtaking drive and really lets your body and mind know that you’re in Hawaii. Then when you’re done you can come back to the city and not feel like you’ve completely disconnected. You feel how beautiful the island is more than if you didn’t venture out. Drive to North Shore (only on a weekday) stop for shaved ice or at a shrimp truck. Go to Pearl Harbor (or just send the family members who want to go.) Take in a luau (the setting is important.) Do all the 1st time things and have a blast!
Judy says
Hi,
I’m seeking advice on where to stay at Waikki. 4 adults (we’re sibs) first time to Hawaii. Would love to find a 4/2. Traveling roundtrip from Florida. May 1-7. Right now Delta has a fare for $670.We hope to island hop-tours, etc. I haven’t read any of the tour books yet….
I’m on a tight budget 🙁 and hope to make this trip under $3k ( my 61st bday present to myself).
Thanks in advance for any advice is appreciated!
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Judy.
Waikiki has both hotels and vacation rentals. Suggest checking out both. Location in Waikiki is pretty important. Will you be driving a car. If so, consider parking costs as part of the accommodation expense – it won’t be cheap. Both ends of Waikiki have easier parking than does the center. Time for a guide book, as we’ve recommended.
Aloha.