trip to hawaii for two cost

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost for Two People? (2024)

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Hawaii has always been a popular vacation destination with the price tags to match. With stunning landscapes, excellent snorkeling, and a general paradisiacal vibe, you’d probably expect costs to be high. 

Prices have only increased in recent years with factors like a post-COVID travel boom and inflation fueling hikes in prices. There’s also the simple fact that Hawaii is an isolated chain of islands, making everything naturally more expensive. 

2024 is still expected to be a busy year for tourism in Hawaii, with millions of visitors expected, despite the devastating fires on Maui .

Here’s what a trip to Hawaii costs for two people in 2024. 

We have a bunch of great budget resources for your Hawaii vacation: We have a full list of coupon codes to help you save on tours, our itineraries , and more! Learn about booking your vacation using points to save hundreds, even thousands on your trip! We almost always use Discount Hawaii Car Rental to book rental cars – they have the best rates, no prepayment, and free cancellation! Plus check out how we book our travel , and tips on getting a cheap flight to Hawaii !

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost for Two People?

It’s no secret that a trip to Hawaii can be expensive. A little bit of research and choosing where to go wisely can make a difference of thousands of dollars for your trip. After doing our own research and a recent getaway to the islands, we have the first hand knowledge to give you an estimate of how much you can expect to spend on a Hawaiian vacation for two.

On average, a 10-day trip for two people to Hawaii will cost around $8,000. 

Ultimately, this number depends on how many activities you want to do, where you’re flying from, and what city or island you’ll be based on for your trip to Hawaii. We factored in variables like flying from the East Coast to help give a better perspective on what your trip might cost, while also using the least expensive Hawaiian island of Oahu for most expenses.

Cost of Airfare

Flights to Hawaii might not be as expensive as you think, especially if you’re flying from large cities on the West Coast. 

After doing some research and averaging the price of flights, we estimate that the typical cost of airfare for two people flying to Hawaii is around $1,600.

Roundtrip flights from Los Angeles to Honolulu (HNL) for mid-January (as of October 2023) per person are…

• Alaska Airlines $783
• Hawaiian Airlines $612
• Southwest (reservations open 6 months prior to departure)
• United Airlines $828
• Delta Airlines $1,120

Factors like where you’re traveling from in the United States (or if you’re coming from even further afield) and what Hawaiian island you’re traveling to can affect pricing. As a rule, Oahu is the least expensive hub to fly into. 

Low-cost carriers to Hawaii include Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines. United and Delta, while they do have non-stop flight options, are typically much more expensive. Of all the options, Hawaiian Airlines is our favorite because it feels like you’re on a Hawaiian vacation as soon as you step aboard. They really go above and beyond to make passengers feel special and get them excited for their Hawaii travels.

Check out our guide for more information on how to snag the cheapest airfare to Hawaii.

Cost of a Hotel Stay

Lodging is going to be your biggest cost on a trip to Hawaii which makes finding inexpensive hotels or resorts ideal. Considering that most visitors to Hawaii choose to stay in a hotel, we’ve based our estimates off of some of the more popular hotel options on Oahu. Oahu is the least expensive place to visit in Hawaii and your best option for a budget-friendly trip.

Here are some nightly prices for Oahu hotels in January…

• Hilton Hawaiian Village $297 
• Queen Kapi’olani Hotel $270
• Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger $268 per night 
• The Laylow, Autograph Collection $346 per night

Resort fees ranged from $30-$55 a night, depending on which hotel or resort you choose. It’s almost impossible to escape these sneaky fees which makes it important to factor them into your budget.

Cost of a Rental Car

When renting a car in Hawaii, the best way to go is through locally owned, discount rental companies. One of our favorites is Discount Hawaii Car Rental .

We have typically saved around $60-$75 per week on car rentals when we book through Discount Hawaii Car Rental. During the busiest time of year, between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you can easily save hundreds of dollars!

The estimated price for a 10-day, standard-size car rental through Discount Hawaii Car Rental on Oahu in mid-January was $411. This includes 2 drivers, an automatic car, and unlimited miles. You can also cancel for free at any time.

Estimating that gas will cost around $100, give or take a bit, and including parking fees at hotels in Waikiki, which are around $35 a night, you can guess that both fuel and parking will cost around $450.

Gas prices vary depending on which island you’re visiting , with Oahu being the least expensive and Kauai being the most expensive.

Cost of Food

Eating out in Hawaii can get really pricey, really quick!

For two adults on a trip to Hawaii, you’ll most likely spend around $150 a day on food with a comfortable budget.

We estimated that the average adult will spend about $75 a day on food. Visitors should expect the typical dinner to cost somewhere between $50-$100 per person. This number will fluctuate depending on what kind of restaurant you’ll be dining at and how many beverages you order.

This is where staying in a vacation rental and cooking can really lower your overall food costs. Seeking out grocery stores can also be a great way to save money by grabbing a picnic lunch or even to try out an inexpensive poke bowl to go. 

Seeking out hotels with an included breakfast option is another trick that will save you money in the long run. The convenience is an added bonus! Some resorts and hotels even offer special deals on happy hour drinks that can really help keep costs down if you know you’ll want to indulge in a few cocktails. 

Cost of Activities

Many of Hawaii’s best activities are completely free! Snorkeling along the abundant reefs, swimming in lagoons, hiking along cliff faces, and evening stopping by sights like the Pearl Harbor Memorial are all examples of free – and exciting – experiences. 

Depending on what you’re looking to get out of your Hawaii vacation you can spend next to nothing on tours and activities, go wild and break the bank, or find a happy medium somewhere in between.

Here are a few examples of some of Oahu’s best tours and what they cost for two to give you an idea of what you might spend…

• Kualoa Ranch’s UTV Jurassic Valley Tour : $304
• Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau Package : $380
• Ko Olina Adventure Snorkel & Sailing Tour : $378 

The total cost for these three activities for two people comes out to $1,062 (gratuity not included). You’ll want to factor in a tip of $10 to $20 per person for any guided tour.

Be sure to book your tours and activities for your Hawaiian vacation in advance, especially in the busy season. Popular tours, like the UTV Jurassic Valley Tour , can sell out quickly.

Check out more of our favorite, can’t miss activities and tours : Our Favorite Molokini Crater Snorkel Tour from Wailea (sunrise and mid-morning tours) The Best Whale Watching Tour from Waikiki Mountain Tubing Adventure

How to Cut Costs on Your Trip Without Sacrificing the Fun

With a bit of preparation and know-how it’s easy to cut costs for your trip to Hawaii. Here are a few hints on how to save money on your vacation to the “Aloha State”.

Stay in a Vacation Rental

Choosing to stay in a vacation rental over a resort or fancy hotel is one of the best ways to save money on your trip to Hawaii. Accommodations will most likely be the biggest cost of your trip, as it is with any holiday. Finding less expensive vacation rentals can save you hundreds of dollars and can be a great option if you like a more laid back experience, without sacrificing amenities like pools and beach access.

Staying in a vacation rental can also help you penny pinch because it allows you to cook at home and often park for free. These are both big money saving considerations as eating out can get really expensive in Hawaii and parking costs add up quickly. Finding a vacation rental with free parking can easily save you over $300 in fees.

We have narrowed down some of the best vacation rentals across the islands The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals Where to Stay on Maui: Hotels and Vacation Rentals for a Range of Budgets Where to Stay on the Big Island: best areas, hotels, and vacation rentals

Use Points for Your Accommodations

Ever heard of using credit card miles and points to book accommodations and flights for free ? Depending on what credit card you use, you can also get free nights or stays at hotels that you’re loyal to, for instance, Hilton or Marriott. Sounds pretty incredible, right?

Using points to book your Hawaii vacation can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, and get you access to luxury resorts or even business class flights at a fraction of their normal cost – or better yet, for free! We use points and miles on a regular basis to lower the cost of our frequent trips to Hawaii. Check out our guide on booking travel to Hawaii for more tips on using points and miles.

Visit During the Shoulder Season

The best time to visit Hawaii is during one of the shoulder seasons, from Labor Day to Thanksgiving (September to November) and April to May. Not only are costs for everything, from accommodations to tours down, but crowds are at an all time low. These months typically have good weather too, although Oahu sees the most rain in November and January. A cheaper vacation and getting the beaches all to ourselves? Count us in!

Enjoy Food Trucks

Not every meal has to be at the resort or a fancy restaurant. In fact, Hawaii’s food trucks offer up local fare and are legendarily delicious! Mixing in meals from food trucks while also sneaking in a few special meals at nice restaurants will go a long way towards your budget without sacrificing any opportunities to try local grindz. 

Some of the best food trucks to check out on Oahu are Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck , Haleiwa Bowls , and Leonard’s Bakery Malasada Truck . Another great option for an inexpensive meal on Oahu is the Maui Brewing Co. in downtown Waikiki. If you’re planning a trip to one of the other islands, check out our food truck guides for Maui and Kauai .

Choose Your Tours Wisely

Try not to fill up your already busy trip with too many tours. Choosing one or two will help balance not only your schedule but also your pocketbook – and leave you with lasting memories. Most visitors will want to book classic experiences like a luau or snorkeling excursion, which both make for great options if you’re only choosing a few tours. 

Check out our favorite snorkeling tours on Oahu and Maui .

If we haven’t already made it obvious, Oahu is the cheapest to visit of the Hawaiian Islands. Your vacation budget will stretch much further than other areas of this tropical archipelago. Save the more expensive islands, like Maui, for a second trip if you’re wanting to visit Hawaii on a budget this time around. Oahu has all the charms of a picture-perfect Hawaiian vacation, like luaus, stunning scenery, and snorkeling, without the huge price tag that other islands can incur.

Our Oahu guide will help you get your trip planning started right.

Cheat Sheets and Even More Insider Tips

Get fast facts and the best beaches, local grindz (eats), and must do activities for each island with our free Hawaiian island cheat sheets .

By grabbing our cheat sheets, you’ll join our growing community of Hawaii travel enthusiasts. We make most of our recommendations from personal experience traveling to Hawaii countess times and living on Oahu and Maui. We also love hearing from our newsletter readers about what made their Hawaii vacation unforgettable.

Our newsletter goes out twice a month and is packed with current need-to-know info, insider tips and tricks, personal stories, and more!

Love your newsletters Jordan!! Been going to Maui for 25 years and you always have something new I didn’t know about in it!! Holly F.

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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Hawaii is often on the short list of dream destinations for a relaxing beach holiday. But a potential trip to paradise doesn’t happen without first asking the critical question: How much is a trip to Hawaii?

The answer varies depending on where you stay and when you travel. We’ve crunched the numbers to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend so you’re better prepared to budget for a vacation in Hawaii.

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

Beachfront view of the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki. (Photo courtesy of Hilton)

We looked at the estimated costs of a 10-night trip for a family of four (two adults and two children) during the peak summer travel season, as well as a seven-night trip for that same family during the shoulder season.

Here are the hypotheticals:

Travel to Honolulu on the island of Oahu, the most popular island for visitors to Hawaii.

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

A peak-season trip assumes a June 25, 2024, departure, while a shoulder-season trip assumes a May 8, 2024, departure.

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

Parking isn't included in condo totals (varies by building/unit).

Meals include nightly dinners of about $225, including drinks, taxes and tips. 

At a four-star resort, meal estimates include breakfasts and lunches totaling about $100 per day. 

Costs at a three-star hotel, which includes free breakfast, include only lunches totaling about $50 per day. 

Tightly budgeted meals assume cutting food costs by 60% with cheap eats and/or preparing meals. 

Activities for the 10-night trip include a snorkeling excursion, surfing lessons, a Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park. For the seven-night trip: snorkeling, the Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park (no surfing lessons).

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

Based on the information outlined above, here are our estimated budgets.

» Learn more: The best times to visit Hawaii by travel style

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

$15,090: Four-star beachfront resort, with a 10-day rental car.

$10,447: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a five-day rental car.

$7,781 Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a five-day rental car. 

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

$9,574: Four-star beachfront resort, with a seven-day rental car.

$6,488: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a rental car for two days.

$4,936: Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a two-day rental car. 

Can you beat these numbers? Definitely. Here are tips on how to save on your vacation to Hawaii.

» Learn more: The best island in Hawaii for first timers

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

Stay on the beach or rent a car every day, but don’t do both.

Does your idea of a great vacation involve hitting the open road to explore every corner of the island? Then, don’t pay premium prices for a hotel on the beach.

On the other hand, if your dream trip involves tons of time lounging on the sand and splashing in the pool, don’t pay $55 a day for a rental car plus $68 a day to park it when it’s just going to sit there.

Many Waikiki hotels are within walking distance of a car rental agency, so it’s easy to get a car for just part of your trip. Select “Waikiki” instead of “Honolulu airport” as your pick-up and drop-off location for your rental car. If you pick the car up in the morning, then drop it off at the end of the day, you can save a night’s worth of parking costs, cutting down your trip cost.

The downside to this strategy is you may have to wait in a long line to get your car. So send one adult to pick up the vehicle in the morning while the rest of the crew gets ready for the day. And don’t forget to include airport transfers in your budget. Budget about $37 each way, including tip, for a taxi or rideshare between Waikiki and Honolulu airport.

» Learn more: The cheapest rental car companies

Eat cheaper

If your family of four has a nice dinner at the world-famous Duke’s Waikiki, including cocktails for the adults, an appetizer and a Hula Pie dessert to share, you’ll spend about $225, including taxes and tip. Of course, the beachfront views, tiki torches and aloha spirit might be worth it. But you don’t have to spend that much every night.

Step away from the beach and meals get much cheaper. For example, the outstanding burgers at Cheeseburger in Paradise are about $20, as opposed to the $36 baked fish at Duke’s.

In addition, pizza joints, super-affordable ramen houses, authentic Hawaiian diners such as Rainbow Drive-In, chains such as Denny’s and IHOP and fast-food restaurants including McDonald’s, Burger King and Subway can bring your meal costs down.

Or swing into one of the many ABC Stores to pick up packaged salads, sandwiches, yogurt, snacks, drinks or some spam musubi (a slice of grilled Spam sandwiched between or on top of a block of rice, wrapped in nori) to fill up on the cheap.

More affordable yet, you can buy cereal, coffee, milk, sandwich meats and bread to prepare breakfasts and lunches at your hotel or condo.

» Learn more: Is island hopping in Hawaii worth it?

Consider a condo

You can often find a vacation rental just a few minutes from the beach for much cheaper than you’d pay for a hotel.

For example, we found the condo shown below on Vrbo for 10 nights for $1,942 plus tax, for a total of $2,260. And that’s during peak summer travel.

For a seven-day rental during the shoulder season, you can cut your total accommodations expenditure by around $500 by choosing a condo over a hotel.

Many condos have kitchens, too, so you could save money by making eggs or pancakes for breakfast, spaghetti for dinner and packing sandwiches for lunches while you’re out and about.

» Learn more: Travelers: Save on meals with these tidbits

Pay with points and miles

The question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” has a much more appealing answer if you pay using airline miles, hotel points or credit card points — which can erase hundreds or even thousands of dollars from your trip cost.

For more information on how to maximize your points, be sure to check out these articles:

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you want to go to Hawaii

So how much does it cost to go to Hawaii? It can be expensive. Hidden costs like resort fees and exorbitant parking prices can easily break a budget. But there are ways to save on the cost of a vacation to Hawaii.

Traveling before or after the peak summer season can save a considerable amount. In addition, don’t pay a premium to stay on the beach if you won’t take full advantage of that location, and don’t pay up to $68 a night to park a car as you’re splashing around the pool for several days.

To save big, consider a condo where you can cook many of your meals to save on dining. With these simple strategies, your answer to the question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” is one that fits your budget.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

How Much Does A Trip To Hawaii Cost For 2 People?

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Aloha! If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, you’re not alone. With its paradise beaches, laidback vibe and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder Hawaii remains one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: For a one week trip, expect to spend around $5,000 total for two people when including flights, lodging, food, transportation and activities in Hawaii .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the likely costs for a Hawaiian vacation for two people. We’ll look at airfare, lodging, food, transportation, activities and other expenses. We’ll also share tips to help you save money and maximize your vacation budget.

Average Cost of Flights to Hawaii

Planning a trip to Hawaii can be an exciting endeavor, but one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much will it cost?” Let’s start by exploring the average cost of flights to Hawaii, which is a major factor in the overall budget for your trip.

When to Book

The timing of your flight booking can greatly affect the cost. Generally, it is recommended to book your flights well in advance to secure the best deals. According to Skyscanner , booking your flights to Hawaii around 3-4 months in advance can often result in significant savings. Keep an eye out for flash sales or discounted fares offered by airlines, as these can be a great opportunity to snag a good deal.

Nonstop vs Connecting

When considering the cost of your flights to Hawaii, you’ll also want to weigh the options of nonstop flights vs connecting flights. Nonstop flights are typically more convenient, as they get you to your destination faster. However, they can also be more expensive. Connecting flights, on the other hand, may require a layover, but they can often be more budget-friendly. If you have the time and don’t mind a layover, a connecting flight could be a good option to save some money.

Main Islands

The cost of flights to Hawaii can also vary depending on which island you plan to visit. The main islands of Hawaii, including Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, are the most popular tourist destinations and therefore tend to have more flight options. This competition among airlines can sometimes result in lower fares. However, keep in mind that peak travel seasons and holidays can still drive up the prices, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Alternate Airports

Considering alternate airports can also be a smart strategy to find more affordable flights. While Honolulu International Airport is the primary gateway to Hawaii, other airports like Kahului Airport on Maui or Lihue Airport on Kauai can offer lower fares on certain routes. It’s worth exploring different airport options to see if it aligns with your travel plans and budget.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, current promotions, and individual airlines. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across different platforms and airlines to find the best deals for your trip to Hawaii.

Accommodation Costs in Hawaii

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the most important factors to consider is accommodation. The cost of accommodation can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Here is a breakdown of the different options available:

Hostels & Budget Hotels

If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, hostels and budget hotels are a great option. These establishments offer basic amenities at affordable prices. You can expect to pay around $50 to $100 per night for a bed in a dormitory-style room or a small private room in a hostel. Budget hotels typically range from $100 to $200 per night. Websites like Hostelworld.com and Booking.com can help you find the best deals on hostels and budget hotels in Hawaii.

Mid-range Hotels

If you’re looking for a bit more comfort and amenities, mid-range hotels are a popular choice. These hotels often offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants. The cost of mid-range hotels in Hawaii typically ranges from $200 to $400 per night. Websites like Hotels.com and Expedia.com can provide you with a wide range of options to choose from.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts

For those seeking luxury and indulgence, Hawaii is home to a variety of high-end hotels and resorts. These establishments offer top-notch amenities such as private beaches, spa services, and gourmet dining options. The cost of luxury hotels and resorts in Hawaii can range from $400 to $1000 or more per night. Websites like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton can provide you with a glimpse of the extravagant options available.

Vacation Rentals

Another popular option for accommodation in Hawaii is vacation rentals. These can range from cozy beachfront cottages to spacious villas with stunning ocean views. Vacation rentals offer the convenience of a home away from home, with amenities such as fully equipped kitchens and private pools. Prices for vacation rentals vary depending on the size, location, and amenities offered. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO allow you to browse and book a wide selection of vacation rentals in Hawaii.

It’s important to note that accommodation costs in Hawaii can fluctuate depending on the season and demand. Booking in advance and comparing prices across different websites can help you find the best deals for your trip. Remember to factor in additional expenses such as resort fees, taxes, and parking fees when budgeting for your accommodation.

Food Costs in Hawaii

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of food. While it’s true that food prices in Hawaii can be higher than in other parts of the United States, there are still ways to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to manage your food costs during your trip.

Groceries & Making Your Own Meals

If you’re looking to save money on food, one option is to buy groceries and make your own meals. Many hotels and vacation rentals in Hawaii have kitchens or kitchenettes, allowing you to prepare your own breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group or staying for an extended period of time. You can find grocery stores in Hawaii that offer a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples. By cooking your own meals, you can control your portions and cater to your specific dietary needs.

Local Restaurants

Exploring local restaurants is an essential part of any trip, and Hawaii offers a diverse range of dining options. From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall eateries, you can find delicious and affordable meals that showcase the local flavors. Local restaurants often serve generous portions, so you can share a dish or take leftovers for your next meal. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations or try out popular dishes like poke bowls, loco moco, or plate lunches. By dining at local restaurants, you not only get to experience the local culture but also support the local economy.

Fine Dining

If you’re looking for a special dining experience during your trip, Hawaii also has a variety of fine dining options. These establishments offer exquisite cuisine prepared by talented chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. While fine dining can be more expensive, it can also be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Consider treating yourself to a fine dining experience for a special occasion or to celebrate your trip. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants can get booked up quickly.

Remember, the cost of food in Hawaii can vary depending on the location and type of establishment you choose. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead, budget accordingly, and explore different options to make the most of your dining experiences while staying within your budget.

Getting Around Hawaii

Once you’ve arrived in the beautiful islands of Hawaii, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get around and explore all that this paradise has to offer. Here are some options for transportation in Hawaii:

Rental Cars

Renting a car can be a convenient and flexible way to explore Hawaii at your own pace. There are several car rental companies to choose from at the airports and in popular tourist areas. Having a rental car gives you the freedom to visit different beaches, hike to remote waterfalls, and explore the scenic coastal drives.

Tip: Booking your car rental in advance can help you secure the best rates and availability.

Public Transportation

Hawaii also offers public transportation options, such as buses and trolleys, which can be a more budget-friendly way to get around. The public bus system, known as “TheBus,” operates on all major islands and serves popular tourist destinations. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind adhering to a fixed schedule.

Fun Fact: TheBus is the only statewide public transportation system in the United States.

Taxis & Rideshares

If you prefer the convenience of door-to-door service, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hawaii. These options can be more expensive compared to renting a car or using public transportation, but they offer the convenience of being picked up and dropped off at your desired location.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that rideshare availability may vary depending on the island and time of day.

Comparison:

No matter which transportation option you choose, exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Hawaii will surely be a memorable experience. So, hop in a rental car, catch a bus, or request a ride, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!

Hawaii Excursions & Activities

One of the main reasons people visit Hawaii is for its breathtaking beaches. With its crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white sands, Hawaii offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a beach with great waves for surfing, Hawaii has it all. Popular beaches include Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Ka’anapali Beach in Maui, and Poipu Beach in Kauai. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and beach towel!

Hawaii is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters, and panoramic views of the islands. From the famous Diamond Head hike in Oahu to the challenging Kalalau Trail in Kauai, there is a hike for every skill level. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Snorkeling & Diving

With its abundant marine life and crystal clear waters, Hawaii is a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Grab your snorkel mask or scuba gear and explore the vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside sea turtles, and discover colorful tropical fish. Some popular snorkeling and diving spots include Hanauma Bay in Oahu, Molokini Crater in Maui, and Kealakekua Bay in the Big Island. Get ready to dive into an underwater paradise!

A trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau. Indulge in a feast of delicious local cuisine, watch mesmerizing hula dancers, and enjoy live music and entertainment. Luau events are held on all the major islands and offer a unique cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and history of Hawaii.

Helicopter Tours

If you want to see Hawaii from a different perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour. Fly over lush valleys, towering waterfalls, active volcanoes, and dramatic coastlines for a truly unforgettable experience. Helicopter tours are available on all the major islands and offer a thrilling way to see the natural beauty of Hawaii. Don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture these incredible views!

With some savvy planning and flexibility, you can plan an amazing Hawaiian vacation without breaking the bank. Look for deals on flights and hotels, choose budget lodging and make the most of free activities like beaches and hiking. Most importantly, embrace the laidback spirit of aloha when visiting these beautiful islands!

Have a wonderful trip to Hawaii! It’s sure to be a vacation you’ll cherish for years to come.

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Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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Cost of a Trip to Hawaii & the Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii

The average price of a 7-day trip to Hawaii is $2,023 for a solo traveler, $2,986 for a couple, and $4,371 for a family of 4 . Hawaii hotels range from $96 to $433 per night with an average of $177, while most vacation rentals will cost $270 to $810 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Hawaii (from all airports) are between $968 and $1,580 per person for economy flights and $3,040 to $4,961 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $74 to $150 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Hawaii and stay in a Hawaii hotel:

• January 8th to March 4th
• August 13th to December 9th (except the week of November 19th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Hawaii is usually early September .

Average Hawaii Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,783-$3,849 ($255-$550 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $74 to $150 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $545 to $1,347 for economy

Lodging : $120 to $169 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $198 to $242 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,845-$6,246 ($406-$892 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $148 to $300 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,089 to $2,694 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $5,691-$11,772 ($813-$1,682 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $296 to $600 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,179 to $5,388 for economy

Lodging : $240 to $339 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $298 to $364 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Hawaii

How cheap can you make a vacation to Hawaii? The cheapest trip to Hawaii is about $185 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $82.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,296-$2,950 ($185-$421 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $37 to $73 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $82 to $96 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $151 to $182 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,092-$4,815 ($299-$688 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $73 to $147 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $4,192-$9,095 ($599-$1,299 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $147 to $293 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $164 to $192 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $227 to $276 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Hawaii cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Hawaii Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Hawaii.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $3,863-$14,748 ($552-$2,107 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $151 to $298 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,360 to $3,308 for first class

Lodging : $241 to $433 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $794 to $1,559 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $6,280-$20,135 ($897-$2,876 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $302 to $595 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,720 to $6,616 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $12,559-$35,512 ($1,794-$5,073 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $604 to $1,190 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,439 to $13,232 for first class

Lodging : $482 to $866 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,191 to $2,325 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Hawaii Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Hawaii is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Hawaii due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Hawaii Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Hawaii hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Hawaii.

Flight Costs to Hawaii

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,580 average in late December to a low of $968 in early September. Median flight price is $963. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Hawaii our data includes hundreds of originating airports, and dozens of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Hawaii, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $612, so you can easily save about 63% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Hawaii can easily cost $551 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $37 per person. Private tours can cost $1100 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Hawaii Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Lanai, HI, US
• Lanai City, HI, US
• Molokai, HI, US
• Maunaloa, HI, US
• Kaunakakai, HI, US
• Lahaina, HI, US
• Downtown Lahaina, HI, US
• Kahoolawe, the United States
• Wailuku, HI, US
• Maalaea, HI, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Kyoto, Japan
• Taitung, Taiwan
• Phan Thiet, Vietnam

Hawaii Top Things to Know Explore Now →

Kauai Guide

Big island guide, essential travel tips.

• Which Island to Visit? →
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Travel Information

• Hawaii Weather →
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View our Hawaii Visitor Guides →

Hawaii Accommodations →

Lodging by island.

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Where to Stay

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Hawaii Trip Costs

Hawaii budget calculator & cheapest times to visit.

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Discount Hawaii Car Rentals

Hawaii Vacation Costs for Couples, Families, and Groups

2024 hawaii budget calculator & cheapest times to visit.

The first step toward planning a great vacation is to budget for it. That way, you can ensure that you have enough to spend to make the vacation worthwhile and possibly save some money in the process. There are many things to budget for any vacation, and Hawaii is no different.

You will have to budget everything from airfare to food costs for a Hawaii vacation. There are also some essential things that you will need to budget for, such as attractions and where you will stay.

The following article is a detailed description of everything you need to know when budgeting for a trip to Hawaii. It covers everything from when you leave for the airport the morning of the trip to returning home once it is over.

— article continued below —

Visiting Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab a copy of one of our updated Hawaii Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Hawaii Trip Costs Summary

This article has the general expenses for planning a trip to the Hawaiian islands. It also has a calculator to help you with an estimated total cost amount.

Click any topic link below to drop to that section on this page.

How Much Airport Expenses Cost

How much accommodation expenses cost, how much vacation activities cost.

• Hawaii Budget Calculator - Trip Cost Estimator

Airport expenses can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what airline you choose and if you purchase any snacks or meals. There are also parking fees and baggage fees to consider.

Airport expenses are one of the most expensive things to budget for on a trip to Hawaii, aside from the hotel or vacation home you decide to stay at. Since there are multiple airlines to choose from, it’s difficult to pinpoint precisely how much airport expenses will cost.

The main things to consider when budgeting for the airport are:

• The plane tickets
• The baggage fees
• Any snacks or meals
• Parking fees

There are also ways to save money on each of these expenses.

Plane Tickets

The average forecasted prices for flights to Hawaii in 2023 are:

• $925 for the East Coast 
• $490 for the West Coast
• $810 for the Midwest
• $1,120 for international flights

However, ticket prices can still vary depending on multiple factors.

When planning a trip to Hawaii, the first thing you should purchase is airplane tickets. Purchasing them two or three months in advance will save you a significant amount of money and ensure you have a flight when you plan to go.

If you are traveling from anywhere on the East Coast of the United States, tickets usually cost about $925 per person for a round-trip flight. If you are traveling from the West Coast or the Midwest, they are slightly less expensive. Flying from the West Coast costs about $490 per person round trip, while Midwest flights cost about $810 per person round trip.

Landing an Inexpensive Flight

The highest flight prices are for those traveling internationally to Hawaii. If you are traveling to Hawaii from somewhere outside of the United States, then the average cost of round-trip airfare is about $1,120 per person. However, ticket prices can fluctuate depending on two main things, the airline you purchase from and when you purchase the tickets.

The majority of inexpensive flights to Hawaii land in Honolulu or Maui. As for which cities have the most affordable flights heading toward Hawaii, California, and other West Coast states, they are the ones to go for. If you want to save money, you could drive to California and fly to Honolulu or Maui. It’s also recommended to search multiple airline websites for ticket prices to find those that fit your budget.

The other main factor that can help you save money on plane tickets is the time you buy them. It is recommended to buy them at least two months before you plan to leave, but there are also certain times of the year that are better for a Hawaii vacation than others. The worst and most expensive times to go to Hawaii are during its peak seasons during the summer months and major United States holidays.

Everything is much more expensive during the peak seasons, not just airfare tickets. To save money and time, the best times to fly to Hawaii include the following:

• Late summer
• After the winter holidays
• Before Thanksgiving

Not only will you have a higher chance of booking a flight for a reasonable price, but you will also be able to save money and time on other vacation expenses.

Baggage Fees

The average cost of airport baggage fees is around $50 per bag. These fees must be paid if you have bags that exceed a specific weight limit or have more than two bags. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid paying this fee or save money on the cost if you need extra bags.

If you have a bag over a specific weight limit or more than two bags, you will need to pay an airport baggage fee. The average cost of airport baggage fees is about $50, but it can vary depending on how heavy your bag is or how many you have.

The best way to avoid paying this fee is to pack light. Having a personal item with you at your seat and a small carry-on bag that can fit in the overhead compartment is the best way to ensure you don’t have to pay for baggage fees. You can also include more items in your bag to avoid having to check a bag if it’s over a certain weight.

If you need to check a bag, there are a few ways to make it less expensive. One way is to check the bag at the airport gate rather than check in for your flight. The airline might offer a free bag check to ensure everyone’s luggage gets on if your flight is full. This method isn’t guaranteed, but it’s worth a shot as long as your bag fits the weight requirements instituted by the airline.

Another way to avoid paying the full baggage fee is to get a discount. Whether a military discount or a discount through elite flight status, any deal can make a considerable cost difference in the long run.

Meals and Drinks

The price of snacks and meals at the airport varies depending on how much you purchase. The average price of snacks and meals is around ten dollars, which can add up fast if you buy a significant amount.

Snacks, meals, and drinks from the airport usually cost about ten dollars. Some airlines offer free snacks on flights, but you still have to pay for meals, drinks, and snack packs. The cost of meals and snacks can rack up fast. Fortunately, there are ways to save money at the airport.

The primary way to avoid buying meals and drinks at the airport is to bring your food. Most small snacks can get past security, such as fruits and vegetables, and having small snacks available will make you less tempted to purchase snacks from the airport and save you money.

Another great way to stay full and save money on snacks is to eat lots of protein-filled snacks, such as protein bars. Protein will help you feel full for an extended time, lessening your chances of getting hungry and buying food at the airport. If you need to stop at a layover, it’s recommended to pack snacks that can keep over time. The most popular snacks include nutrition bars and trail mix since they are filling and can last for days in a backpack.

Parking Fees

Parking at an airport isn’t ideal if you’re on a budget, but it’s doable with a few money-saving tips. The average cost for parking at an airport is anywhere from $42 to $273 for one week, and the prices vary depending on the airport and how long you want to park your car there.

It’s recommended that someone drive you to the airport or take a taxi to avoid airport parking fees altogether. But if you do need to park your car at the airport, you can expect to pay around $42 to $273 for one week of parking. The prices might be a little more or less expensive depending on the airport and how long you park there, but there are ways to save money on parking for any circumstance.

The best ways to save money on airport parking are to book parking in advance and look for coupons. Reserving a long-term parking spot a month or so before your flight can save you significant money. You should contact the airport you plan to fly from to check advanced scheduling versus drive-up rates.

Another way to save money on airport parking is to look online for coupons. Even a Google search with the name of the airline you plan to park at and the word “coupons” after it can turn up some unexpected finds.

When you get to Hawaii after your flight, the next step is to find somewhere to stay. Hotels and vacation rentals are popular, but you also have to determine which one works best for your budget when including parking and food costs.

Getting to Hawaii is half the battle, but booking accommodations for when you get there is also essential for budgeting your stay. The primary things that need to be budgeted for accommodations include the following:

• Hotels or Resorts and/or Vacation rentals
• Parking and rental car expenses

There are multiple ways to configure accommodations that can work for your budget.

Hotels and Resorts

Hotel and resort prices vary depending on how many stars they are rated. The average cost of a three-star hotel is about $350 a night, while a four-star resort is about $455 a night. Lastly, most bed-and-breakfast inns are about $190 a night.

Hawaii is famous for having beautiful hotels and resorts that are steps away from beaches and other island attractions. However, their price varies depending on their star ratings and how much they offer their guests. For example, the average cost of a room at a four-star resort is about $455 a night, but you will also likely be right next to a beach and other attractions.

A three-star hotel in Hawaii may also be near a beach and is less expensive at $350 a night. However, you might not have access to other attractions or amenities. If you decide to stay at a standard bed and breakfast inn, this is the least expensive option at $190 a night. But a traditional inn likely won’t be near a beach, and you’ll only have access to a room and one meal.

For budgeting purposes - the average statewide cost of a hotel room in Hawaii is roughly $375/night  as of this writing. Each island has a price modifier to help further estimate costs by island. The price modifiers are as follows:

• Oahu - Price is approximately 68.55% of the statewide average 
• Maui - Price is approximately 163.22% of the statewide average
• Kauai - Price is approximately 98.63% of the statewide average
• Big Island - Price is approximately 105.90% of the statewide average

 These modifiers are based on average hotel rates in Hawaii, so they might differ if you park and stay at a rental home.

Hawaii Statewide Hotel & Vacation Rental prices in 2022

Vacation Rental Homes

Renting a vacation home has become trendy over the last few years. The average rent per night for a Hawaii vacation home is $170, and there is also an average tax rate of 18% on rental houses.

Renting a vacation home can be a great way to save money on accommodations. But the prices fluctuate depending on where the rental home is located and which type of home you select. If you choose an average rental home, the average rate is about $170 a night, much less expensive than a hotel or resort room. But if you rent a luxury home, the price can increase to over $1,000 per night.

It’s also important to note that the average tax rate is about 18% on rental homes in Hawaii, so it’s recommended to factor that in when choosing which one to stay at.

If you’re still undecided on where to stay during your vacation, you can expect a statewide average of about $335 in shelter costs. The island modifiers we discussed above are also applicable to vacation rentals.

Parking and Rental Car Fees

You will likely have to rent a car to get around the island, and parking and gas fees come with that additional accommodation cost. The average is about $30 per night for rental car parking.

The best way to get around the island is to purchase a rental car. In addition to how much you pay for the rental car, there are also parking and gas fees to worry about. The first step is to determine what kind of rental car you want. The average rental car prices in Hawaii include the following:

• $70 per day for a regular car
• $110 per day for an SUV
• $125 per day for a convertible
• $150 per day for a luxury car

Once you know which car you want, you must figure out parking and gas fees. The average cost of gas in Hawaii is about $4.95 - $5.15 per gallon, so you can expect to spend about $75-$100 on gas alone. Your rental vehicle's fuel efficiency and the total miles driven during your visit will determine the total amount.

Even if you're staying somewhere with restaurants close by or accessible continental breakfasts, you will likely have to purchase and cook most of your food. The average cost for ​​breakfast is $15 per person, lunch is $25 per person, and dinner is $45 per person.

Food in Hawaii is expensive, even if you don’t go to a restaurant for each meal. The average cost of food per person per day is about $61, but it can fluctuate depending on where you eat and how many people you go with. Fortunately, there are also some ways to save money on food costs during your vacation.

Planning your meals ahead of time and how much they will cost can give you a good idea of what to buy and cook and which restaurants you want to visit. It can help you plan out which ingredients to use in multiple meals and is the most cost-effective way to try everything the island offers. You can also bring any spices or pantry staples you already have to avoid buying them there.

For anything you need to buy fresh there, such as fruit or vegetables, it’s recommended to shop at local stands. They are usually much less expensive than supermarkets or chain stores, and you also get to experience Hawaiian culture while at it.

The last piece of budgeting for your Hawaii vacation is figuring out fun activities while you’re there. There are so many different activities for you, ranging from island tours to exploring local souvenir shops.

While the beach is part of an excellent Hawaiian vacation, you can do plenty of other activities while you’re there. Each island has beautiful tours and excursion experiences, not to mention all of the local shops and attractions you can explore. The average price for attraction fees is about $45 per person, but it fluctuates depending on what attractions you do.

Guided Tours and Excursions

The average cost for guided tours and excursions is about $50 to $100 per person, and the price fluctuates depending on what is included in the tour or excursion. If you want to explore state or national parks on your own, you can expect to pay about $35 per person.

Hawaii offers a wide variety of tours and excursions for you to choose from. Tours usually include a guided tour of the island's most beautiful and historical parts. You can ride on a bus or other mode of transportation and listen as a guide tells you about the stories behind different island sites.

On the other hand, you can do excursions while exploring the island. They usually include scuba diving, hiking, and other activities that explore the island, along with a guide. The islands also have state and national parks that you can explore independently. Each of these activities is optional, but it’s highly recommended to budget for a few so you can experience everything Hawaii offers.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping and souvenirs are also optional, but it’s highly recommended to budget for them just in case. The price of shopping and souvenirs depends on how much you’re willing to spend, so deciding on a number that’s comfortable for you is the best practice.

There are multiple places to shop for souvenirs and other keepsakes on any Hawaiian island. Since their price highly depends on the shop and how much you’re willing to spend, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly how much shopping and souvenirs will cost.

The best practice is to come up with a number you’re comfortable with plus a little extra. This will give you some breathing room when deciding how much to spend.

Attraction Parking Fees

The majority of Hawaiian attractions also have parking fees. They vary depending on the attraction, but the average cost of attraction parking is about $3. Fortunately, there are usually a few free parking areas near the attraction, but you’ll have to walk a bit and get there early.

Parking lots close to any attraction usually have a fee of about $3, allowing you to park there for a full day. However, a quick google search about any free parking lots near the attraction can save you from paying any fee. The only downside is that you’ll likely have to walk a bit from the parking lot to the attraction. On the plus side, you might get to see more of the island by walking than if you did while driving.

It’s recommended to look up any parking fees the attraction has before you book it to be sure that you’re prepared. Some excursion attractions even have an option where a shuttle or bus will pick you up from your hotel or rental home and then drive you back at the end of the day. This option can be beneficial if you’re trying to avoid car and parking costs altogether.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot to budget for when planning a Hawaiian vacation. But planning out everything you can in advance can make the entire experience much less stressful and help you make the most of an incredible trip.

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

Estimate the cost of your hawaii vacation.

Aloha, guest readers can calculate five (5) trip cost estimates for Hawaii each day. Rates included within this calculator are based on projected 2024 rates aggregated from current OTA pricing. Rates will be updated regularly.

HawaiiGuide Premium members can submit unlimited trip estimates each day.

Aloha, as a HawaiiGuide Premium member you can calculate unlimited Hawaii trip cost estimates each day. Mahalo for being a HawaiiGuide Premium member!

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Calculator overview.

This calculator is designed to provide both a comprehensive and regularly updated budget estimate for planning a trip to Hawaii. Currently, rates are applicable for 2024. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and early 2025.

This budget tool considers all of the following:

• Hawaii Flight Costs including airfare from various destinations, baggage fees, etc.
• Hawaii Accommodation Costs including different lodging types, Hawaii's now roughly 18% accommodation tax, parking fees (if applicable), which island you're staying on, etc.
• Hawaii Vehicle Rental Costs including various types of vehicles, fuel costs, and number of miles driven daily.
• Additional Costs including dining + gratuity, visitor fees to parks, etc., and Hawaii Tours and Activity costs.

Hawaii Flight Costs

First, consider your flight costs to Hawaii. Select your departure location, update the number of travelers (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay baggage fees, below.

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

Next, let us know which island you'll be visiting (select the primary island if you're visiting more than one), select a lodging type/classification, update the number of nights (default is set to a week), update the number or rooms (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay parking fees (common in more densely populated areas on Oahu and/or Maui).

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

Now, let's consider your vehicle rental costs (if applicable). If you're not renting a car, select 'No Car,' but for most visitors, we highly recommend a rental. Update the number of days (which will default to +1 day more than you selected in accommodation nights) and choose an estimate for your mileage each day. If you're not sure, we recommend you leave the default option selected.

If you select 'No Car' this will be zeroed out by default!

Other Hawaii Costs

Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

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Final Question

If you're visiting another island, please let us know below. This will not affect the estimate or rate you're provided. This is for research and calculator improvement purposes only. Mahalo!

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Hawaii driving tour apps.

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It's like having a tour guide in your car! Listen to stories, legends, history, and what to do and see at the right place and time.

Shaka Guide uses your GPS to guide you to exciting places along the way on the main Hawaiian islands. Automatic audio tours with turn-by-turn directions mean all you need to do is to turn on the tour and drive. Check out driving Tours for Circle Island Oahu, North Shore Kauai, and Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast.

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Hawaii Travel Cost: A Budget-Friendly Guide

Are you dreaming of sandy beaches, aqua-blue water, and a laid-back island vibe?

Considering a getaway to Hawaii but not quite sure about the travel costs?

Understanding your Hawaii travel cost can be simpler than learning to hula.

It’s not just about dollar signs – it’s about making informed choices that let you soak in paradise without a fiscal hangover.

Whether it’s exploring the majestic Hawaiian landscapes or relaxing in tropical accommodations, your vacation should feel like a slice of heaven, right?

Just remember, every paradise comes with a price tag.

But here’s the good news: with a pinch of planning and a dash of savvy budgeting, you can ease into your island adventure with confidence.

So, are you ready for a vacation that’s as chill as Hawaiian shave ice?

Let’s unravel that budget mystery, shall we?

Key Takeaways

• Understand accommodation options and typical costs to make informed decisions
• Explore transportation choices and set realistic expectations for getting around the islands
• Learn about local activities, dining experiences, and savvy ways to save money in Hawaii

Hawaii Travel Cost: An Overview of the islands

The beautiful Hawaiian Islands, each with their own unique charm, are your go-to destination for unforgettable family vacations.

But with so many options, which islands should you visit?

Let’s take a quick look at the highlights of Hawaii’s major islands.

Oahu : The gathering place.

Oahu is the most populated island and where you’ll find Honolulu, the state capital.

Popular attractions here include Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the iconic surf town of Haleiwa.

This island is a perfect mix of city life, beaches , and tropical nature escapes.

Maui : The Valley Isle.

Famous for its picturesque landscapes, Maui is home to the breathtaking Haleakala National Park and the scenic Road to Hana.

Families love Maui’s gorgeous beaches , top-notch snorkeling, and whale-watching opportunities.

Lahaina, a historic whaling town, is a must-visit for shopping and dining .

Kauai : The Garden Isle.

Kauai is all about natural beauty, known for its lush mountains, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs along the Na Pali Coast.

Its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families looking for a more relaxed vacation.

Highlights include Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, and the quaint town of Kapa’a.

Big Island : The Island of Adventure.

The Big Island, officially named Hawaii, is the largest and most diverse of the islands.

Home to active volcanoes like Kilauea, this island packs plenty of adventure.

Must-see places include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, incredible stargazing on Mauna Kea, and beautiful waterfalls in Hilo.

Each island has its own unique vibe, and deciding which ones to visit will depend on your family’s preferences and activities.

Accommodation Costs

Finding the right hotel for your Hawaiian vacation can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time.

But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

Whether you’re staying in Waikiki or Honolulu, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Hawaii’s hotel prices vary greatly, but you can expect to find a comfy three-star hotel for around $240 to $339 per night.

Make sure to consider parking fees when booking, as some hotels may charge additional fees for it.

Here’s a quick list to guide you:

• Budget-friendly hotels : $100 – $200 per night
• Mid-range hotels : $200 – $400 per night
• Luxury hotels : $400 and above per night

Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for more space and a home-away-from-home vibe, vacation rentals are an excellent option.

Feel free to cook your own meals and enjoy more privacy than a regular hotel room.

You can find vacation rentals in popular locations like Lahaina and across the Hawaiian islands.

Typical vacation rental prices may vary based on the location and amenities:

• Standard vacation rentals : $150 – $350 per night
• Premium vacation rentals : $350 – $600 per night

Airbnb and Others

Airbnb is another popular option for accommodations in Hawaii.

It offers unique stays, ranging from budget rooms to luxurious villas.

The platform’s user-friendly interface allows you to filter your search based on preferences, making it easy to find the perfect accommodation for your Hawaiian getaway.

Don’t forget to check other platforms like Vrbo and Booking.com as well.

Hawaii prices can fluctuate, so shopping around can help you find the best deals on the best hotels in Hawaii .

• Budget Airbnb : $75 – $150 per night
• Mid-range Airbnb : $150 – $300 per night
• Luxury Airbnb : $300 and above per night

Transportation Expenses

When planning your family vacation to Hawaii, it’s essential to take into consideration all your transportation expenses.

In this section, we’ll cover three main aspects of transportation costs for your trip: Airfare, Car Rentals, and Additional Transportation Fees.

So, you’re wondering how much it’ll cost to fly your family to Hawaii?

Well, let’s talk about average forecasted flight prices.

The expected costs for flights to Hawaii are:

Of course, ticket prices can still vary, so it’s essential to keep an eye on deals and discounts to save some extra cash.

Car Rentals

Now that you’ve got the whole family in Hawaii, you’ll need a way to get around.

A rental car can be a great option.

The cost of renting a car in Hawaii can vary depending on factors like your drop-off location, the type of vehicle you choose, and the duration of your rental.

To save on vehicle rental costs, consider booking your car in advance and keep an eye out for special offers, discounts, or coupons.

You might also want to compare prices among different rental agencies.

Additional Transportation Fees

Aside from your car rental, there may be some additional transportation expenses you’ll need to account for.

For instance, local transportation in Hawaii can cost an average of $37 per day.

This includes bus fares, taxis, and rideshare services.

But exploring Hawaii by bus can be a budget-friendly way to sightsee and experience the local culture.

Also, don’t forget about parking fees that may apply at certain attractions or accommodations.

Be sure to research ahead and find out if your lodging offers complimentary parking.

Activities and Attractions

Outdoor adventures.

Hawaii offers a wide range of outdoor adventures that cater to every interest.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Hawaii , with numerous trails for all skill levels.

Explore the majestic scenery of Waikiki Beach or challenge yourself with a hike up the famous Diamond Head volcanic crater.

If golfing is more your style, Hawaii is home to some world-class courses.

Tee off with views of the Pacific Ocean or play a round on the lush greens of the various Hawaiian islands.

Historical Sites

Hawaii has a rich history and offers plenty of opportunities to explore the past.

A visit to Pearl Harbor is a must, where you can learn about the tragic events of December 7, 1941, and the significant impact they had on the United States’ entry into World War II.

Aside from Pearl Harbor, there are several other historical sites and parks worth visiting.

Learn about the fascinating culture of ancient Hawaiians, or explore the former homes of monarchs and missionaries.

Water Activities

With Hawaii’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it’s no surprise that water activities are popular.

Whether you’re interested in surfing, swimming, or scuba diving, there’s something for everyone.

For an unforgettable experience, book a sunset dinner cruise along the coast, complete with a Polynesian show.

If you prefer to stay on land, consider attending one of the island’s famous luaus for an evening of entertainment and delicious food.

Dining and Eating Out

Hawaii is a paradise for food lovers, and you’re in for a tropical treat.

Whether you’re an early riser who loves breakfast or someone who enjoys exploring new places to eat out, Hawaii will definitely impress your palate.

Let’s talk about some dining essentials that will help make your Hawaiian vacation a delightful culinary experience.

First things first: breakfast.

You might wonder, what’s on the menu for breakfast in Hawaii?

Expect traditional island fare like ‘loco moco’ – a hearty dish of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy – or fresh tropical fruits, such as papayas, pineapple, and mango.

But don’t worry, you’ll find familiar items like pancakes, bacon, and eggs too.

Some great spots to start your day include hotel buffets or local cafes and diners.

When you think about eating out in Hawaii, imagine the mouthwatering flavors from an array of culturally diverse cuisines.

Hawaii’s culinary scene showcases a wonderful blend of Polynesian, American, Asian, and European influences.

So when venturing out to discover the restaurants in Hawaii, you’ll have your choice of everything from upscale eateries and cozy seafood shacks to eclectic food trucks and farmers’ markets.

As you dine out, remember to factor in gratuity when budgeting your Hawaii vacation.

Tipping is customary in the United States, and Hawaii is no exception.

It’s standard to leave a tip of 15–20% of your pre-tax bill at restaurants and bars.

Whether your service is exceptional or just satisfying, be generous and consider the hard work of the staff behind your pleasurable dining experience.

Budgeting and Saving Money

Best time to visit.

Hold on to your sun hats – one great tip for saving money on your Hawaii vacation is choosing the right time to go.

Generally, the most budget-friendly times are during the shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to October.

During these months, you’ll not only find better deals on accommodations and attractions, but you’re likely to avoid those pesky peak-season crowds too.

Travel Deals

Listen up, deal-seekers.

There are numerous ways to find the best deals for your trip to Hawaii.

Keep an eye out for Hawaii vacation packages that bundle airfare, accommodations, and sometimes even activities.

These bundles can save you a chunk of change compared to finding everything a la carte.

Don’t shy away from checking out different travel websites, like Lonely Planet, to score some insider secrets on scoring amazing deals.

And, of course, be open to planning in advance – you’ll be more likely to find better prices the earlier you book.

Money-Saving Tips

Remember, expensive doesn’t always equal better.

Here’s a list of tried-and-true tips to help you cut back on some notorious Hawaii vacation costs:

• Lodging : Instead of luxury hotels, consider alternatives like vacation rentals, condos, or even camping. These options can provide a cost-effective (and sometimes more authentic) stay.
• Food : Save money on meals by hitting up local grocery stores for snacks, breakfast items, and meal ingredients. Don’t forget to try some reasonably priced local eateries and food trucks for a taste of Hawaii without breaking the bank.
• Transportation : While exploring the islands, renting a car may be convenient, but be ready for additional costs like parking and gas. Check out local public transportation, ride-sharing apps, or rent a bike for more budget-friendly options.
• Attractions : Some attractions in Hawaii may come with visitor fees or attraction parking fees. Do your research ahead of time and consider if these activities are worth the expense for your family.

Don’t forget there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to entertain every age group, like hiking, beach hopping, and local festivals.

Hawaii Travel Tips

If you’re planning a family trip to Hawaii, it’s essential to consider a few factors to make the most out of your vacation without breaking the bank.

We know you want to enjoy your time in paradise, so we’ve compiled some top tips for you.

Weather Considerations

The weather in Hawaii is pretty consistent throughout the year, with temperatures usually ranging between 75°F and 85°F.

Be prepared for the Pacific Ocean winds, which bring in sudden showers.

Don’t forget to pack sunblock, as the UV index in Hawaii typically reaches 14+ during the spring, summer, and fall.

It’s always a good idea to bring a light jacket and some rain gear for passing showers, especially if you plan on exploring the island.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

Some planning around peak and off-peak seasons can make a significant difference in your Hawaii trip costs.

Peak travel seasons include December through April, and June through August.

During these times, you’ll find higher prices for accommodations and airfare.

Alternatively, scheduling your visit during the off-peak seasons—May, September, and October—can save you money and ensure a more relaxed experience, as tourist attractions will be less crowded.

Important Information for Tourists

Let’s talk about your options for accommodations, tours, and fun activities.

The cost of living in Hawaii is generally higher than in cities like New York, London, or Vancouver, so you’ll need to consider how to cut costs without sacrificing enjoyment.

When it comes to accommodations, vacation rentals and condos are often more affordable than hotels, especially for longer stays.

Don’t forget to factor in resort fees, which can range from $25 to $50 per night, depending on the property.

As for exploring, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around and see everything Hawaii has to offer.

Keep an eye out for deals when booking your rental to further reduce costs.

Now, the fun part: activities.

Hawaii is an outdoor lover’s paradise and has many affordable or even free activities.

From snorkeling and surfing to hiking and exploring the island’s beautiful landscapes, there’s no shortage of adventure.

Don’t be shy to ask locals for their favorite spots—they love to share their hidden gems.

Lastly, in my own experience venturing through Hawaii with my family, we discovered some delicious local food trucks, which not only saved us money on dining but also allowed us to immerse ourselves in Hawaiian culture.

Parting Words

So, you’ve got a grasp on the Hawaii travel cost and what to expect during your family vacation.

Now, it’s time to make your dreams a reality and start planning that unforgettable trip.

Remember, preparation is key, and by simply knowing the cost, you’re already one step ahead.

While exploring the idyllic islands of Hawaii with your loved ones, don’t forget to indulge in the mouth-watering food and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

It’s crucial for any savvy traveler to maintain a balance between maximizing the experience and staying within budget.

So, make sure to allocate your resources wisely, and most importantly, have a fabulous time.

Rest assured, your carefully planned Hawaiian escape will thank you for your attention to detail and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Related: What To Buy In Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a 7-day trip to hawaii.

A 7-day trip to Hawaii can vary in cost, depending on your choice of accommodations and activities. On average, you can expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 per person, including flights, hotels, food, and activities. Remember, your actual spending will depend on your preferences and budget.

What Is The Cost Of An All-Inclusive Trip To Hawaii For Two?

All-inclusive vacation packages for Hawaii can range from $3,000 to $7,000 for a couple. These packages typically include airfare, accommodation, meals, and selected activities. Be sure to compare different packages and read the fine print to make sure they offer the experience you want.

What Is The Average Budget For A 5-Day Hawaii Vacation?

For a 5-day vacation in Hawaii, you can expect to spend around $1,200 to $1,800 per person. This budget includes flights, hotels, food, and activities. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your choice of accommodations, the time of year you travel, and the activities you participate in.

How Much Should I Budget For Food For A Week In Hawaii?

The average food budget for a week in Hawaii is about $60 to $100 per day, per person. This can vary depending on whether you plan to dine at upscale restaurants or opt for more casual, local dining options. To save on food costs, consider cooking at your rental or condo, or visiting local farmers’ markets and grocery stores.

What Is The Cost Of An Average Flight To Hawaii?

The average cost of a round-trip flight to Hawaii can range between $400 and $800 per person. Flight prices can vary widely based on your departure city, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. To get the best deal, be flexible with your travel dates and consider booking your flights during off-peak travel seasons.

Are Hawaiian Vacations Expensive?

Hawaiian vacations can be pricey, but they don’t have to break the bank. With some planning and budget-conscious choices, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of the islands without overspending. Consider traveling during the off-peak season, staying in budget accommodations, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities to keep your vacation costs manageable.

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Hawaii Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Hawaii?

How much does a weekend trip to hawaii cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Hawaii cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Hawaii cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Hawaii

When it comes to exploring Hawaii, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $128 and $975 per day for solo adventures and $256 to $1,950 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $342 per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and transportation, all from our large repository of travel expenses from previous visitors. Keep in mind, though, your personal spending might vary a bit based on your own level of luxury, travel style, and chosen activities. However, if you're visiting the highlights with some savvy planning, chances are your spending will vibe right around this average cost. For more details, check out the breakdown of expenses by category, plus the breakdown on accommodation and activity prices below.

If you're planning an Independent trip to Hawaii, budget travelers should plan to spend around $128 per day for their trip. This average includes hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and activities. If you're on a mid-range budget, plan for around $342 a day which covers the cost of typical hotels, normal restaurants, and a variety of popular attractions. Luxury travelers should allow for $975 a day, which would cover higher-end hotels, nicer restaurants, and more private tour options. All of these price ranges are based on our extensive travel cost data for Hawaii from other travelers, along with hotel and tour data from travel companies.

On average, travelers spend around $1,025 per person during a three-day trip to Hawaii. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Hawaii offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Hawaii cost?

With five days in Hawaii, you can expect to spend about $1,708 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Hawaii cost?

Most visitors spend between $894 and $6,827 for a one week trip to Hawaii, with the average being $2,391 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Hawaii. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Hawaii

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Hawaii, the average price for a hotel room is $0 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Hawaii here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Hawaii?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Hawaii has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $198 for the Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa to $209 for the Myths of Maui Luau Dinner and a Show .

• North Shore Adventure Shuttle Viator $ 100
• North Shore Adventure Shuttle: $100
• ETOHI: Exclusive Island Tour - Oahu • Private • Custom • No Rush: $286
• Electric Bike Ride & Manoa Falls Hike Tour: $179
• 3 Hour Sunrise Photo Tour with Malasada: $65
• Afternoon Adventure Snorkel from Ka'anapali: $169
• Full Day Private Customized Sightseeing Tour in Oahu Hawaii: $179
• Private and Personalized Scuba Diving Adventures for All Experience Levels: $250
• 4 Dual-Zipline Mountain Adventure ~ Maui: $200

More for Hawaii

If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, Hawaii, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Hawaii, an island known for beautiful beaches and friendly locals, can be visited with a budget of  $95 to $250 a day.

My almost two-week trip to Hawaii, which included visits to Maui and the Big Island , cost a total of $2,761 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• 📍 My trip’s costs by islands
• Is Hawaii Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $209
• Flight: $225
• Accommodation: $1,667
• Transportation: $508
• Entertainment: $46
• Maui: $1,890
• Big Island: $862
• How Much Cash to Bring
• Cash-Only Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Hawaii Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Hawaii Expensive To Travel To?

Hawaii is the  most expensive state  in the United States to travel to. The island relies on imported goods, has a high cost of living, and offers expensive tourist hot spots and accommodations due to high demand.

Oahu, Hawaii’s most budget-friendly island , is more expensive than many other Caribbean island destinations.

However, Maui, Hawaii’s most expensive island, is cheaper than some of the US’s most expensive cities (e.g., New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, and Key West).

🏝️ Is Hawaii Cheaper Than Puerto Rico for Vacation?

If you’re looking for an island escape within the US territory, Puerto Rico is cheaper than Hawaii for a vacation. It isn’t easy to visit Hawaii for  less than $200 per day , but that’s doable in Puerto Rico.

On average, Puerto Rico is about $50 per day cheaper than even O’ahu, Hawaii’s most budget-friendly island.

I took a trip to Puerto Rico and Hawaii within a few months of each other. I visited the former during its high season and the latter during its low season.  Puerto Rico was still cheaper than Hawaii per day.  Here’s how my daily budget compared between the two:

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Hawaii?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

A budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $95 per day or $475 for five days of travel in Hawaii, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

To travel to Hawaii on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏝️ Island Choice – Travel to Oahu, Hawaii’s cheapest island. Here are 10 great things to do on Oahu that my friend Matt recommends.
• 🏠 Accommodation – Housing in Hawaii is expensive. A dorm-style hostel or budget hotel typically costs $50 a night in Oahu and jumps to about $60 a night in Maui . A private room increases to $100 per night in some areas during the peak season.
• 🚙 Transportation – Getting around Hawaii without a car is hard, and car rentals can be expensive. You can take advantage of the limited public transportation to minimize gas and rental costs, but keep in mind that the full Hawaiian experience requires a car.
• 🍗 Food – To keep food costs under $15 a meal, eat at budget-friendly options like local establishments, food trucks (there are many in Hawaii), and fast food chains like L&L. You can also consider shopping at grocery stores like Foodland to make your own meals.

• 🌋 Entertainment – Tours and activities are usually $50 or more in Hawaii, so enjoy the many free natural attractions where you’ll only need to pay for parking occasionally. Most of Hawaii’s national parks have an entrance fee, but not all do.
• ☀️ Travel Season – The best time to travel to Hawaii for the best deals is during the off-season, which runs from April to mid-June and September through mid-October.

The summer months in Hawaii are a popular time to visit, but the travel peak season runs from December to March when visitors are escaping their home country’s winters.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Hawaii Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $250 per day or $1,250 for five days of travel in Hawaii, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

About My Hawaii Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Maui : 8 days
• Big Island : 4 days

Maui is Hawaii’s second most popular and  most expensive destination . Oahu is Hawaii’s most visited island and the most affordable one.

• ☀️ Low season – I went to Hawaii in September, which is considered the low season.

Hawaii’s high season runs from December to March when visitors are escaping their winter months.

• ✌️ Group travel . I traveled with at least one other person at all times, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.

All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars.

Hawaii Trip’s Total Cost: $2,761

My almost two-week trip to Hawaii cost a total of $2,761 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in these  Maui and Big Island itineraries.

💰 Cost Breakdown for Hawaii

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Hawaii: $209

My Hawaii trip cost $209 per day , excluding my round-trip flights from and to the United States.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $250 per day in Hawaii. This generally entails splitting a mid-range hotel that costs $180 per night, eating at $ to $$ restaurants, renting a standard car every day, and doing a mix of free activities and paid tours.

✈️ Flight Cost to Hawaii: $225

Here’s how much my round-trip flight from the West Coast of the United States to Hawaii cost:

A round-trip flight between the continental US and Hawaii that costs under $150 is considered cheap; those flights typically cost over $200.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Hawaii: $1,667

My average cost of accommodation in Hawaii was $139 per night. I was able to split accommodations with others at all times.

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

On Maui, the most expensive island, the average price of a mid-range hotel room is $200 per night . A budget hotel is usually at least $120 per night. Luxury hotels easily surpass $900 per night. On Oahu, the cheapest island, a mid-range hotel can be about $150 per night .

🍛 Food Cost in Hawaii: $315

My average cost of food in Hawaii was $26 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $60 per day on food in Hawaii.

Cheapest Meals in Hawaii

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

You can keep your meal cost low by eating at local establishments, fast food chains like L&L, and food trucks. I recommend getting the affordable fresh poke at Foodland, a local Hawaiian grocery store.

Most Expensive Meals in Hawaii

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

🚙 Transportation Cost in Hawaii: $508

My average cost of transportation in Hawaii was $42 per day. I split rental cars with other travelers and had to use Uber once since I had a different departure time than others.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Expected Costs of Transportation in Hawaii

There are several ways to get around Hawaii, and the prices can drastically vary, depending on the level of inconvenience you’re willing to accept.

• Rental car – The best way to get around Hawaii is by renting a car; not having a rental car will limit your options. The average cost for a standard car is $30 per day, not including gas. Keep in mind that you’ll also typically have to pay $2 to $10 for parking in some areas.
• Public transportation – All Hawaiian islands have at least some bus public transportation system. Oahu has a decent bike-sharing system where you can pay $12 for unlimited rides for 24 hours. Maui has a limited bus system, and it costs $2 for a one-way bus ride.
• Island hop – Flight tickets between Hawaiian islands are in the $50 to $100 range for one-way trips. $39, which is how much I paid to fly from Maui to the Big Island, is a great deal (I traveled during the low season).

🤿 Entertainment Cost in Hawaii: $46

My average cost of entertainment in Hawaii was $4 per day. Unlike many of my other trips, I didn’t spend much on attractions. I primarily did free activities and enjoyed the island’s natural beauty.

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Hawaii

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

The Haleakalā sunrise, Maui’s most popular activity, has a $30 entrance fee , but I brought my Nationals Park Pass, which waived the cost. Instead, I only had to pay the $1 reservation fee.

Learn how to catch the epic Haleakalā sunrise (or sunset) .

Free Things To Do in Hawaii

If you’re on a tight budget, a great way to save money is to enjoy Hawaii’s many free natural attractions , where you’ll only need to pay parking fees if necessary.

In Hawaii, tours and activities are usually $50 or more per person (for example, the popular manta ray snorkeling tour on the Big Island is generally $100 or more per person).

🏝️ Free Things To Do on Maui

Here are all the activities I did in Maui that were free:

• Road to Hana – Maui’s second most popular activity, the Road to Hana is a two-day road trip featuring waterfalls, hikes, and more. There’s no entrance fee, but you have to pay for parking and a rental car.
• Kihei Beach – Kihei Beach is a decent snorkeling area with tide pools to explore.
• Papalaua Beach – This is a local spot with strong waves.
• Honokeana Cove – This is a popular and beautiful snorkeling spot.
• Honolau Bay – Another popular and beautiful snorkeling spot, Honolau Bay gets crowded if you don’t get there early.

🐢 Free Things To Do on the Big Island

Here are all the activities I did on the Big Island that were free:

• Kapalua Coastal Trail – This is a scenic, easy trail with beautiful ocean views.
• Captain Cook Monument Trail – Captain Cook is a medium-difficult trail that leads to clear and stunning snorkeling.
• Kilauea Iki – This is a hike in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. At the crater, you can walk over a solidified lava lake.
• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – This beach is known to have sea turtles resting.
• Kukio Bay – Kukio Bay is a non-crowded snorkeling spot where I saw a sea turtle swimming in the ocean.

Cost Breakdown by Island in Hawaii

Below are my trip expense breakdowns for Maui and the Big Island. These two major islands are often featured in first-timers’ travel itineraries.

🏖️ Maui Trip’s Total Cost: $1,890

During my eight-day trip to Maui, I averaged  $237 in daily travel expenses.

I stayed at Hyatt Regency Resort for a wedding and split a mid-range hotel, Castle Kamaole Sands , with several others before staying at the resort. I had a rental car every day and mainly did free activities except for a dragon fruit farm tour.

See great things to do on Maui .

Maui is Hawaii’s most expensive island, and an average day there can easily be $300 for a mid-range budget traveler.

🤿 Big Island Trip’s Total Cost: $862

During my four-day trip to the Big Island, I averaged  $215 in daily travel expenses.

I spent $0 on entertainment and primarily enjoyed hiking and snorkeling the beautiful beaches on the Big Island.

Check out great things to do on the Big Island .

The Big Island is neither the most expensive nor cheapest in Hawaii. On a mid-range budget trip, you can expect to spend  $200 per day .

Do You Need Cash in Hawaii?

Like other places in the United States, Hawaii has an  excellent credit card infrastructure , so you’ll only need to carry a bit of cash.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Hawaii.

🏧 1. Carry about $50 worth of cash per day in Hawaii.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Hawaii will need  about $50 in cash  to cover food and attractions. At a minimum, $50 will cover a meal for two people from vendors on the side of the road.

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💵 2. Certain places in Hawaii are cash-only.

While credit cards are commonly used in Hawaii, I still had to use cash a few times during my trip. Here are some of the places that were cash-only in Hawaii:

• Local food stalls – Huli Huli Chicken on the Road to Hana was cash-only and cost about $20 per person.
• Food trucks – Hawaii has popular food truck areas, and I went to several that were all cash-only.
• Markets – For example, Maui Swap Meet has a $0.50 admissions fee that’s cash-only, and some vendors at Maui Gift and Craft prefer cash.
• Tipping – Tipping service workers is typically done with cash.

💰 3. Tipping is customary in Hawaii.

Like the rest of the United States, a  10% to 20% tip is customary  and expected in Hawaii. Good service should receive a 15% to 18% tip, and exceptional service should receive a 20% tip.

• Dining out – A 15% to 20% tip is standard for tourists and locals.
• Valets – A $2 tip is standard when they bring your car to you.
• Tours – A 10% tip is standard for a group tour, and 15% to 20% is standard for private tours.
• Massages and spas – A 10% to 20% tip is standard for these places.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Hawaii Travel Guides

• 🏝️ Maui Amazing 5-Day Itinerary + Great Things To Do
• 🌋 Big Island: 3-4 Day Itinerary + 10 Great Things To Do
• ☀️ Haleakalā Sunrise On Your Own: How To & Firsthand Tips
• 🚗 Road to Hana Guide: Map, Great Stops + Is it Dangerous?
• 🤿 Hiking Captain Cook to Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay Guide
• 🎒 Complete Maui Packing List: Tips + What To Bring

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save)

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save)

There’s no getting around it, Hawaii is an expensive destination. In this article, we share the exact breakdown of a Hawaii trip cost — from food and hotels to transportation and entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving tips so you can travel to Hawaii on a budget!

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii and find yourself wondering just how much to expect everything to cost, you’re not alone.

When you start looking at price tags, it’s enough to make your eyes water. 

So how much should you expect to budget? And are there any ways to cut costs?

In this article we’ll help you determine the cost of a trip to Hawaii by going over average costs for things like accommodation, food, transportation and activities. We’re also sharing some money-saving tips to help you keep expenses as low as possible.

Hawaii trip costs

Accommodation costs in hawaii.

• Food costs in Hawaii

Rental car costs in Hawaii

Activity costs in hawaii, flights to hawaii.

• Misc costs in Hawaii

Money-saving tips for Hawaii

Is hawaii expensive .

I’m gonna give it to you straight… Yes, Hawaii is expensive .

Accommodation is expensive .

Gas is expensive.

Rental cars are expensive.

Food is expensive.

These aren’t just tourist prices – the cost of living in general is very expensive. With sky-high electric bills, rent costs, and groceries, it’s no wonder that Hawaii is one of the most expensive US states to live in. And most of the prices make sense when you consider how isolated Hawaii is.

Still not swayed away? Good, because despite the high prices, Hawaii is still very much worth visiting. Plus there are some sneaky ways to save money.

If you’re curious about the cost of a trip to Hawaii, or are looking for some money-saving tips to help you stay under budget for your dream Hawaii vacation, we’ve got you covered!

How much does a Hawaii trip cost?

Your budget will vary based on your travel style and the time of year you visit Hawaii. Prices really fluctuate throughout the seasons reflecting peak and low tourist seasons. Plus, your total costs will also vary based on which island(s) you visit. 

So which is the most expensive island?

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority , the most expensive island to visit is Maui.  

Alternatively, Oahu can be the most affordable due to the amount of hotels and tour operators. (That said, a night in Waikiki Beach can cost a pretty penny!)

Average costs in Hawaii

Below are some average prices for a Hawaii trip on a midrange travel budget so you have an idea of what to expect. You could spend less than these averages, but it wouldn’t be difficult to spend much more as well.

Good to know: Each Hawaiian island varies a bit in pricing. We found the Big Island to be slightly less expensive than Kauai, and we’ve heard that Maui tends to be the most expensive. Oahu can be a bit of a mix, as there’s more competition than the other islands so you can find good deals. However, Waikiki and other parts of Honolulu can be very pricey.

In general on our travels, we try to spend less than $200 per night on accommodations. But this seemed very difficult in Hawaii, especially since we would be staying in these hotels with a baby (which means we have more specific things we look for than when it’s just the two of us). 

For places that were clean, well-located, had great reviews, would accommodate a baby, and were cute (hey, that’s important sometimes too!), we found that the most budget-friendly options were closer to the $250-$300 per night price range, if not higher. 

Note: We were traveling during a higher tourist season. Prices may be lower later in the year.

• $250-$400 per night average (for a family)
• $175-325 per night average (for a couple)

Good to know: Each city and region is slightly different, and the cheapest place we stayed on the Big Island was Volcano, where we paid $180 per night. The most expensive place on the Big Island was in Kona, where we paid around $450 per night.

If you aren’t very concerned with location or how nice your accommodation is, you can certainly lower these averages a bit. But I will also say that it wouldn’t be hard to spend hundreds more per night as well.

For the best chances of a good deal on a decent accommodation, book early.

*It seems that the cost of accommodation has increased in the last couple of years.

Food costs in Hawaii 

Food is expensive! I expected it to be more costly than on the mainland (things have to be shipped over the Pacific, after all!). 

However, even things that are grown on the island, like Hawaiian fruit , were way more expensive than I would have expected. For example, at just about every roadside fruit stand, $10 seemed to be the going rate of a cold coconut. Yikes! 

While the prices can make your eyes water, it’s important to remember that the high cost of living for Hawaiian residents is the driving force here. As a visitor to the islands, expect to pay (much) more for food than you’re used to at home.

Here are some examples of what to expect (based off our personal experience in April 2023):

• $3-5 black coffee 
• $10 smoothie
• $15 – $25 per person for a casual meal
• $30 – $50 per person for a dinner with a drink

Personal experience: We spent an average of $175 – $225 per day for the two of us (and our 16-month-old daughter). We didn’t watch our budget much and ate out for most meals. We got coffee with breakfast, drinks at dinner, snacks along the way, and chose restaurants that had been highly-recommended. You could easily spend less than this, but it wouldn’t be hard to spend much more as well. 

The good news is there are so many ways to save money on food in Hawaii. Jump down here for some money-saving tips!

You can splurge in this category by renting a Jeep (super popular on the islands) or a fun sports car, but this is one area you won’t be able to hack your savings all that much. 

Prices are pretty standard on the islands throughout the year, and even the most budget-friendly rental cars are not exactly cheap (especially compared to other parts of the USA).

• Sedan: $45-60 per day
• SUV: $70-90 per day
• Jeep: $100-120 per day

Note: Prices may vary depending on the time of year and how many days you need.

We break it all down in detail in our guide to renting a car in Hawaii.

Cost of gas

In addition to the vehicle itself, you’ll also need to factor in the price of gas, which tends to be some of the most expensive in the United States.

During our trip to Hawaii (April 2023), the price of gas was roughly $5 in Big Island and $5.25 in Kauai.

Money-saving tips for rental cars in Hawaii

All that said, there are two rental platforms we’d recommend if you’re looking to save as much money as possible.

a) Discount Hawaii Car Rental is an aggregate site that rounds up all the options from the major rental companies on the islands, however, their prices are consistently better than the other aggregates. We saved a grand total of $135.65 compared to RentalCars.com for the same exact car! Definitely do some comparing of your own to find the best price:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental (this is where we consistently found the best deals for the same exact vehicles)
• Discover Cars
• RentalCars.com

Important Note : Be sure to read this advice before choosing your rental car company. 

b) Turo can be another good option for renting a vehicle in Hawaii. This is a platform where individuals rent out their personal vehicles. Think of it like the “Airbnb of rental cars”.  

Personally, we found there weren’t a ton of vehicles available for our dates, and the pricing was actually quite a bit more expensive than what we found on Discount Hawaii Car Rental . That said, we certainly wouldn’t have had to deal with the lines we did at the car rental company! 

We recommend comparing options and pricing for your dates to the rental car companies to help you make a decision.

There are so many splurge-worthy activities in Hawaii, but the good news is there are also lots of free things to do.

Our advice is to come up with your budget first and choose a few splurges. Then, balance it out with lots of free activities. 

Splurge-worthy experiences

• Scenic helicopter ride : $300 – $500
• Snorkeling with manta rays (Kona): $130
• Scuba diving: $130 – $200
• Zip-lining : $100 – $200

Travel Tip: Prices above are averages. We’d encourage you to look into each company before choosing. Sometimes the cheapest one isn’t the best experience or isn’t the best choice for the environment.

Free or cheap activities:

• Snorkeling (if you bring your own gear it is free, but you can also rent gear)
• Farmers markets
• Picnic 

This can vary quite a bit based on where in the world you’re flying from, so it’s hard to include an average cost here since someone flying from Los Angeles will surely pass less than someone flying from London.

Money-saving tips for flights to Hawaii: 

• Use Google Flights to compare prices of each day on a calendar. 
• Search using a VPN and an incognito window. 
• Set price alerts so that we know when the price drops. 
• Sign up for a newsletter like Thrifty Traveler to get the best deals on airfare.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii?

According to Hawaiian Airlines , the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is in the late spring (April & May) and early fall (September & October). Alternatively, the most expensive time to fly to Hawaii is from December – February.

They also suggest flying in and out on weekdays to lower the cost.

Flights between the Hawaiian islands

Getting from one island to another is actually quite affordable. Hawaiian Airlines has the most inter-island flights, and prices tend to be relatively reasonable. 

For example, we paid $68 per person for a flight from Kauai to the Big Island.

Good to know: Many inter-island flights have a connection in Honolulu.

Miscellaneous costs in Hawaii

Plan on buying souvenirs? 

Want to have a night out on the town with as many Mai Tais as you can handle?

You’ll want to have some wiggle room in your budget for those things that don’t quite fit into the other categories.

You’ll also want to factor in the cost of travel insurance and any other things you need to purchase for your trip. 

Hoping to travel Hawaii on a budget? I will tell you that budget travel in Hawaii looks different from budget travel in Thailand, but there are certainly ways to save money!

1. Compare hotels and Airbnbs

Even if you’re typically someone who only books hotels, we’d recommend comparing your options to Airbnbs in Hawaii. 

We personally found Airbnbs to be more affordable than hotels of the same quality standards for our trip.

While there are some excellent hotel options in Hawaii, many of the good ones will cost an arm and a leg. For anyone looking to save some money, this can be a great way to do so. 

Also, there are just some incredibly cool and unique properties in Hawaii. 

From treehouses , to tiny homes (we personally stayed here!) to glamping domes to cozy farm stays (with a private waterfall!) to jungle cottages with dreamy outdoor bath tubs , you’ll find it all! Plus, these are arguably more memorable than a regular hotel room, am I right?!

Psst! Most of those properties we linked above are actually quite affordable!

Budget tips when choosing accommodation in Hawaii:

• Don’t forget to factor in all the costs. For Airbnbs, this means the tax and cleaning fees. For hotels this is the tax and resort fees. All these extra costs can be hidden from the price that is initially displayed, and they can really add up. 
• See what’s included. Some Airbnbs we stayed at offered all the beach gear we needed (cooler, beach umbrella, boogie boards, snorkeling gear, folding chairs, etc.). This was a huge perk, as renting or buying these items can really add up. Some hotels may offer these as well.
• Use our genius tips for booking the best Airbnb . We’ve spent a lot of time over the years staying in Airbnbs and come up with some tips and hacks for booking the best Airbnb possible.

2. Save money on food

Food on the islands ain’t cheap! If you’re looking to cut costs, here are some ways to save on food in Hawaii.

Have lots of picnics: Grab groceries from a supermarket or farmers market and enjoy your meal with a view! Simply pull over wherever you find a good spot and sit on folding chairs or a beach blanket. If you plan to do lots of picnics, you may want to bring a collapsible cooler .

Get a grocery membership: Join Foodland’s Maika’i membership program (it’s free) and get instant savings on your grocery runs. You’ll even get $25 off your first purchase if it hits a certain threshold (which would be a great deal when you do your first grocery run!).

Stock up in bigger cities: We learned the hard way that some of the smaller towns don’t have grocery stores as much as they have general stores. We were staying in one such tiny town and had very little choice in groceries and had to pay at least double what we would have in the larger towns. Lesson learned!

Try grocery store poke: Sounds sketchy, but I promise it’s not! We were told by one person that Foodland (a Hawaiian grocery store chain) has the best poke on the islands. And while we don’t think it was the best we had, it was pretty damn good. Plus, there are so many varieties to choose from.

Insider tip: We asked if we could get one portion of poke but try two different types. The staff member said, “absolutely”. At $7.99 it was a great deal and even though we split the single portion, it was very filling.

Book accommodation with kitchens: If you really want to save, cook some meals for yourself. We find this easiest when we book Airbnbs with kitchens. This makes it easy to have something simple for breakfast, like yogurt and fruit, oatmeal, or eggs. If you make your own breakfasts, have picnic lunches and only eat out for dinner, you’ll save tons!

Make your own coffee: We’re big coffee drinkers, and we always started our day with coffee at our Airbnb. The issue for me was that I was always tempted by cute coffee shops and the famous Kona coffee, so we usually ended up buying one each day as well. But if you’re really serious about saving money, the answer is simple – have more willpower than I did and skip the coffee shops. They do add up.

Pack some snacks from home: Since groceries are so expensive on the islands, we’re glad we brought some of our favorite snacks from home, like Chomps beef jerky, dried mangoes, and protein bars. These all saved us from more than one hangry moment! Additionally, we brought some food for our daughter so we didn’t have to go grocery shopping on day one.

3. Shop around for a rental car deal 

We found Discount Hawaii Car Rental to have the best deals on rental vehicles on the islands. The same exact vehicles were cheaper on this platform than the other aggregates we normally use.

Compare sites for yourself to see where you find the best deal. But also read our cautionary tale before selecting the specific rental company. 

Compare prices:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental

4. Enjoy lots of free activities

While accommodation, transportation and food are all quite expensive in Hawaii, the good news is there are plenty of free things to do! 

• Spend a day (or many!) relaxing on one of Hawaii’s many beaches 
• Go snorkeling: this can be free if you have your own gear
• Stroll through a farmers market (there are many all around the islands)
• Go hiking! Hawaii has so many incredible hikes.

5. Set a budget & track your expenses

If you’re serious about sticking to a budget, you’ll want to listen up…

Setting boundaries for yourself (that are reasonable) and keeping track of how much you are spending are essential.

There are plenty of apps out there for budget tracking so you won’t come home with a nasty surprise in your bank account!

6. Don’t forget the essentials

Small expenses for forgotten items like a phone charger or rain jacket can add up quickly. Don’t forget any of the essentials when you are packing for your trip!

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Hawaii !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii?

We have lots of resources on travel in Hawaii and destinations around the islands. Check out our  Hawaii Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Hawaii travel articles to help you plan your dream vacation to the Aloha State:

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii
• Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide
• Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
• Kalalau Trail: Ultimate Guide to Kauai’s Best Hike

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We want to hear from you!

Do you have more questions about a Hawaii trip cost and how to save money while traveling? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (1) on “ How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2024? (+Tips to Save) ”

Hello! My sister-in-law, Kari Lohn shared your page with me.

We are leaving for Maui next Wednesday! We plan to be there for 4 days and then off to Kauai for 5 days. We have been to Maui before, but not for almost 15 years. We have never been to Kauai, so we are very excited. I’m looking for a recommendation on a backpack to use for a day of going out and about and doing some hiking. We aren’t intense hikers by any means, but would like to do some! I’m just curious on what you would recommend as a backpack to take along. I’m also curious about the type of shoes you would recommend for that type of activity. Is there a sandal brand/style you prefer? Chaco? Keen?

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Setting your budget for your Hawaiian Vacation

• Flights: $1,200
• Inter Island Flights: No Entry
• Lodging: $2,040
• Transportation: No Entry
• Activities/Tours: $1,000
• Food: $1,400
• Lei Greeting: No Entry
• Insurance: No Entry
• Shopping: No Entry
• Supplies: No Entry
• Spa: No Entry
• Child Care: No Entry
• Pet Care: No Entry
• Cruise: No Entry

Your Total Budget

When planning your Hawaiian vacation you will probably want to set a budget. But we realize that you really may not know what a good budget would be. This page will help you figure out what things will cost and what not to forget in your budget plans. Once you have your budget you can decide if your dates are feasible, how much you need to save each month, and if you can splurge on that luxury activity when you get there.

Your budget can vary greatly depending on what you do, how far you have to travel there, your mode of travel, what level of experiences you want to have on the islands, whether you want to stay on the beach or just nearby, how long you are staying, and more. We’ll go through each section and help guide you to find the right numbers to add to your budget.

Each section below will take you through all the areas that your most likely to experience on your Hawaiian vacation. We’ll take you through flights, hotels, arrival, transportation, activities, food, and a whole lot of smaller and sometimes optional items for you to consider. Once you’re done you should have a much better idea of what you need to plan for. We look forward to hearing about your Hawaiian Vacation.

One of the 3 largest items in your budget will most likely be your flights. This is the way that almost everyone gets to Hawaii and the only way we recommend doing so. The only other way is by boat, and that means you’ll be at sea for about 3-4 days each way, wasting a week of vacation that could be spent on the islands having fun. To set your budget for your flights, head over to Google Flights and do a quick search from your location to the island that you are thinking about visiting. At this point you are just looking for an idea on the cost. If your dates are too far out and there are no flights for those dates, just pick a date about 4 months out and find the cost for that time.

Next, add at least $25, but possibly $50 for one optional piece of luggage. While it is possible to go completely carry on (and some valid reasons to do so), you will most likely be purchasing souvenirs in Hawaii to bring back, also having 1 checked bag allows you to send all those liquids that you cant get otherwise.

Don’t forget taxes, and any upgrades you may want. For example, if flying by Delta we recommend upgrading at least to the main cabin (cost of $25) so you can sit by your companions while traveling to Hawaii. It’s a long flight to be squished between 2 strangers.

Finally don’t forget any taxes and other fees. Add all this with your cost of the flight for your total flight cost.

We’ve seen round trip flights for as low as $450 from Las Vegas, and about as high as you can imagine. Hawaiian Airlines has some very nice seats that actually recline 180 degrees. If your budget allows, that may be a nice treat so you arrive relaxed in Hawaii.

Accommodations/Lodging

There are several options for how you want to stay. Hotel, Motel, Hostel, Timeshare rental, Home Rental, or even camping.

You could stay in a high end resort, which has many of the amenities like a pool, being close to beaches, etc. but usually do not have things like a kitchen. If you choose this option, your food budget may be a little higher, but a hotel or resort can be exactly what you need. The average price for a 3 star hotel is about $350. We’ve seen some under $200 and for ones with the best features you could be looking at $600 or more. We don’t recommend skimping here, you’ll be spending a lot of time here. We normally recommend finding something for around $300 a night for 2 people. Don’t forget taxes though, that can add another $40 to that cost.

Another option is to purchase a timeshare rental. You can find great options at tug2.net marketplace. You are not required to go to any timeshare presentations with a rental. We’ve done this several times and you get great quality resorts for just a little more than a hotel would cost.

Other options include home or condo rentals. You can get some of these through sites like airbnb.com and the average that we’ve seen is still around $200 a night per couple after fees. This option also allows you to have a kitchen so you can eat breakfast before you leave, and perhaps even pack a lunch to keep your food costs lower.

Finally there are some options for camping. Rules for camping vary so check where you want to go and what those costs may be. This is usually the cheapest option.

Lei Greeting

This is an option that we truly recommend. When you arrive in Hawaii there will be many people who are being greeted and given a flower lei as the way to welcome you to the islands. This stems back for ages, and is something that we really recommend. Other vendors offer other upgrades in the type of lei you’ll receive. Some are flowers, some shells, and some even have nuts (not edible).

Inter Island Flight

This will apply to you if you are planning to visit more than 1 island on your trip. There’s no means of travel between islands other than flights (or chartering your own boat). The only alternative was a ferry that got shut down due to environmental impact on the whales. We certainly do NOT want to cause the whales to go anywhere else so we’ll manage. The cost is fairly inexpensive, between $55 to $120 per flight. You can book a flight with Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, or SouthWest Airlines. However, unlike in the past where you’d normally have to purchase an island flight on all travel outside Oahu, most commercial flights will now have options directly onto the island you are planning on visiting and we recommend that option in most cases. The exceptions are Molokai and Lanai, which are the only two islands that do have a ferry.

• www.southwest.com
• www.hawaiianairlines.com
• www.mokuleleairlines.com

Transportation

You’ll need to get around once you get there. On some trips, if you plan on staying at the hotel other than when you book excursions (who will usually pick you up), you could do without a car at all. However, in our experience this can end up being a more expensive option if you plan on doing very much (even if you plan on being at the beach, are you going to want to do the same beach?).

Our recommendation is to book a car rental. First, it will allow you to do some island tours on your own (we can show you some options), go to multiple beaches, and be able to explore the islands. Vehicle rental competition is brutal on the islands, which is in your favor, it keeps the prices lower. You can rent a small car for about $500-$800 a week (about $200 of this is taxes and fees). You can even rent a convertible for just over $700 which we definitely recommend on some island tours like the Road to Hana, just remember not to heave the top down as it does rain in Hawaii (to keep the islands green). Or a jeep if you plan on going anywhere back country.

See a list of Car Rental companies here

Parking Fees, National Park Fees and Fuel

Along with your car you will have other driving expenses. If you are parking at a resort you may have daily parking fees, and many places around the island will have parking fees as well. If you plan on going into any National Parks you may have entrance fees (usually pretty low). The biggest part of this budget line will be your fuel. Depending on where you are driving to, you could expect an average of about $50 a day in gas. With the other fees, we recommend estimating about $70 a day for this category per vehicle.

Experience and Activities

Your budget could vary widely in this area. Do you plan on taking advantage of all the activities offered? Do you plan on one or more flight tours. We recommend budgeting at least $125 per day per person for things like snorkeling trips, whale watching tours, luaus, bike tours, parasailing, ziplining, and more. You’ll need to increase that if you plan on doing things like helicopter tours or doing more than one thing per day. You can decrease it slightly if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach (we recommend spending at least a day or two relaxing), or if you plan to go out on your own on driving tours.

You can book tours directly on our site by clicking here

Click here for a list of experiences we recommend on each island

For some of you, you won’t return to the islands for many years and for some not at all (we’re very sorry), so make the most of your trip. We don’t recommend overbooking, so make sure to plan for some downtime, but budget enough to experience much of what the islands have to offer.

The cost of food can vary depending on your lifestyle. However, the cost of food at the grocery store can be high compared to the mainland, so be prepared for expenses regarding your food. If you plan on eating out every meal, we recommend budgeting about $150 a day per person. You can reduce that if you have a kitchen in your place of lodging, so you could have breakfast, and even pack a lunch. We do recommend experiencing some of the island food while you are here. In the case that you prepare some food at home, and taking into account that cost, you would still expect to budget about $50 per person per day. Food at luaus and on other excursions may be covered in your activity costs, so you can take that into consideration as well. We recommend budgeting about $100 a day if you plan to eat out some, but prepare some of your own meals (especially lunches), and perhaps cook some breakfasts at home (we actually bought a toaster on one of our trips and used that each morning).

On our Packing List you’ll find that you will need a few things to bring with you. We recommend purchasing some ahead of time, and some on the island, but either way you need to budget for all the items you do not have. Take a look at the list and note which ones you need to purchase, and put the total of all supplies in this section.

Optional Items

Shopping and souveniers.

We recommend picking up a few things when you first get to the island, such as towels, shirts, hat, etc. (see packing list). Bring money for that. You (or your spouse) may also want to do a little shopping while you are there, and you’ll probably want to pick up an item or two, perhaps ship a few pineapples back home. You should budget at least some for shopping. We’d suggest a minimum of $100 per person, but if you really like to shop, you’d better add a little to that.

Spa Treatments

We recommend at least trying the Lomi Lomi Massage while you are on the islands. Of course this category could vary widely, we recommend starting with $120 per person for 1 massage and going from there.

Whether we like it or not, there are certain financial risks when traveling. These risks vary from the inconvenient, like a delayed suitcase, to something much more substantial, like a hurricane hitting the Hawaiian islands just before your departure. A travel insurance plan can cover losses incurred by your big Hawaiian vacation. The cost can vary depending upon your personal requirements, but usually averages about 5% of your trip cost.

If you are bringing kids to the islands you have the option to have them taken care of by an approved care service. We recommend care.com but the choice is ultimately up to you. If you add child care, expect about $10 an hour per child.

No, we don’t expect you to bring your pets with you, although for some you may. This is to remind you that you may need to get boarding for your pet back home. Again, care.com is a good option. Another option is rover.com. Cost would be roughly $30 a day.

There is an option that can replace your accommodations and food budget (for the most part). That would be to take an inter island cruise. The only cruise we know about is the Pride of America by NCL. You can get a room for about $1,600 for the week (per person), but upgrading to a balcony will allow you to experience the Na Pali Coast on Kauai and the Volcano on Hawaii from your own room. It’s also nice to be able to sit there and listen to the beach. We took this cruise and it was a great way to see all the islands, but it’s not a good way to really interact with them as you only spend 1 or 2 days in each island. When you take into account that you have to pay this per person (so about $3,200) it’s also not the best value option, but it includes housing and food, so it’s not too bad. It does offer a neat perspective of all the islands on one trip. Check it out at https://hawaiianplanner.com/discover/information/details/norwegian-cruise-pride-of-america

Your budget is ultimately up to you, but it can vary widely. Using this guide you can hopefully narrow it down. We also recommending adding a small amount to a contingency fund, for things that go over your estimate and for unforeseen events. A good estimate for a trip for 2 to Hawaii for 7 days, 6 nights would be between $4,000 - $10,000.

Extreme Budget Conscious Sample Budget for 2 for 7 days

Budget with increased activities, Resort accommodations for 2 for 10 days

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How much does it cost to go to Hawaii? Money-saving tips for a trip to Hawaii for two :: Budget tips

Now, we’re talking about Hawaii here, so “cheap” is relative…

Can a trip to Hawaii for two cost under $2,000?!

How much money an average trip to Hawaii costs is hard to say definitively because there are a lot of factors that can make your Hawaii vacation cheaper or more expensive.

But spoiler: It can possibly cost under $2,000 if you really  want it to!

Total Hawaii trip cost for two: $1,900 minimum

This $2,000 price tag for the cost of a trip to Hawaii includes:

• Flight $900
• Place to stay $450  (yes, really!)
• Activities $100
• Travel insurance $100
• A few extras $100

Yes, if your timing is right, and you really want to make it happen, you can go to Hawaii for under $2,000!

Well, if you fit the profile of the above considerations. 😉

Which means that a trip to Hawaii might end up costing you more than that.

But, just HOW can you come as close as possible to the costs listed above on your own Hawaii vacation?

Below will break down exactly how you can do just that!

How to save money on your hawaii vacation.

Below you will find information on how to save money on your Hawaii vacation, including:

• How to find the cheapest flights to Hawaii
• Places to stay to save money on accommodation
• How to save money on food costs
• The best cheap and FREE activities in Hawaii

You know that Hawaii is seen as an expensive destination.

And if we’re being real, Hawaii kind of is expensive compared to other US destinations, or other popular destinations for Americans.

But, if you’ve got Hawaii on your mind, there are some things you can do so your trip to Hawaii won’t be as expensive as you might think it is!

You might have to sacrifice a little here and there so the cost to go to Hawaii will be lower, but you can decide what sacrifices you want to make based on what you want out of your vacation.

Even with small sacrifices, there’s a very good chance you will still LOVE your Hawaii vacation — it is Hawaii after all!

Just make sure you do some short hikes with the best views , snorkeling at the best spots , and a road trip around the island !

And if you DO go snorkeling in Hawaii , make sure you don’t do anything you should NOT do on a first trip to Hawaii , including being sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen !

And if you are willing to spend money on experiences, also look into yoga retreats and surf camps in Hawaii too.

Hawaii is home to one of the best surfing destinations in the world.

So here on this page will be an estimated budget that you can use as a start to planning your dream vacation to Hawaii!

This will give you some ideas as a starting point when you have no clue where to start your planning process.

First, know this:

Whether you’re planning an annual family vacation, destination wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary trip in 2018, here are just a few of those reasons that can influence the cost of a trip to Hawaii:

The time of year you go to Hawaii ( Is there a WORST time to visit Hawaii?! )

When you buy the big-ticket items (flights and accommodation)

Where you are flying from

How many people are in your family

Which Hawaiian islands you go to (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island)

How long your Hawaii vacation is

What type of things you want to do in Hawaii

What type of place you want to stay at in Hawaii

How much of a budget traveler vs luxury traveler you want to be, or somewhere in between!

But, to at least get you started to give you at least some idea, listed below is pretty much the absolute minimum it costs to go to Hawaii, and from here, the expenses will go up.

Of course, there are always exceptions, but in general here are some price points to expect.

So for the sample Hawaii budget outlined on this page, this is what’s considered:

Trip for two

7-day vacation (6 nights)

Going to the Hawaiian island of Oahu only

Flying out of California

Active travelers, and don’t mind tons of walking! 😉

Budget travelers

If you’re headed to the Big Island, see specific tips on the cost of a trip to the Big Island .

And now…

Below is exactly how you can keep your costs down and save money on your Hawaii vacation!

Whether you are 2 people or a family of 4 going on a trip to Hawaii, these are travel budget tips that can be applied.

How to figure out the best Hawaiian island for you!

One of the hardest parts about planning a trip to Hawaii just might be choosing which Hawaiian island is best for you! Each island will provide you with a different experience.

Have a look at this Hawaii island guide  to help you decide which island to choose. (Be sure to check the preview!)

Here’s how to get a free Hawaii travel guide from the Hawaii state tourism department.

These are really popular guidebooks for planning a trip to any of the Hawaiian islands!

So, how much for a trip to Hawaii for two?

Let’s break it down for a one week Hawaii vacation…

Flight to Hawaii

San Jose to Honolulu flight for two: $900

Generally speaking, flying from the west coast will naturally get you the cheapest flights to Hawaii. And you might be able to find flights to Hawaii from San Jose at $400 per person.

The flight from California to Hawaii is about a 5-6 hour long direct flight.

Alaska Airlines tends to offer some of the cheapest prices, and Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines can be competitive too.

As of 2019, Southwest Airlines will start flying to Hawaii for the very first time!

This should be good news for the cost of flights to Hawaii, especially from west coast since that’s where the Southwest flights will originate from in the beginning.

On top of that when you consider that Southwest is pretty much the ONLY airline that flies to Hawaii that offers free check-in luggage on domestic flights.

If you’re planning on checking in luggage, be sure to consider the airline baggage fees on your flight to Hawaii in your budget.

If you’re planning on making 2 islands a part of your vacation, Southwest also offers inter-island flights as well within the Hawaiian islands.

See for yourself how much your flight to Hawaii might cost from where you live:

Kiwi flight search

This compares a bunch of airlines at once.

This is perfect if you have flexible dates and want to get an idea of the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii  with the assortment of tools available. Search for flights here.

Hawaiian Airlines monthly calendar

When you go to search for flights directly on the Hawaiian Airlines website, right near the search button, select the price calendar or price chart.

This lets you see the cheapest prices to fly in the whole month.

You can also check the price calendar to see the cheapest dates to fly to Hawaii, and then use the other flight search engines to check more airlines for those dates.

If Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t fly from a city near you, try searching any west coast airport just to get an idea.

Are layovers worth it on a flight to Hawaii?

Also be sure to see whether the flight itinerary will require you to stop in another city.

If a flight with a layover vs a direct flight has a price difference of $20, you may consider that extra cost to be worth it to have a direct flight to Hawaii to minimize travel time.

Extra time at an airport for a layover could also mean extra money you spend in the way of airport food.

You can bring your own food (carry-on friendly!) but if you don’t, airport food is typically expensive!

What time do you want to arrive to Hawaii?

You will also want to look at the time of arrival into Honolulu airport. You might not like the idea of arriving to an unfamiliar city at night.

Packing for your flight

When you’re thinking about what to pack, try to pack light for Hawaii without any big containers of liquids so you can avoid any extra baggage fees.

Most airlines will charge you from the first checked bag, but look into this once you’ve booked your flight. (Or before, if you definitely will be checking in a bag, so you can compare total price of the flight with baggage fees.)

And pick these seats on your flight to Honolulu airport to have the best chance of aerial views of Oahu!

How to find the cheapest flights Hawaii

If you’re ready to start really thinking about booking your flight, there are 2 newsletters you might want to know about to find the cheapest flights to Hawaii .

Place to stay in Hawaii

Vacation rental: $450

This is based on paying $75 per night on  these types of vacation rentals on Oahu . (Find a referral link there to get up to a $40 discount on your booking to save more money on your trip to Hawaii!)

It could be possible for you to find nightly rates that are closer to $60 if your timing is good!

If you’re going solo to Hawaii, you may be able to find rentals for under $50 a night. This means your cost for accommodation becomes closer to $300. There are also hostels in Honolulu that are cheaper.

If you are taking a trip to Hawaii as a family of 4 or 5, it could be possible for you to find vacation homes in the $450 price range as well. But again, this will depend much on your timing and what you’re looking for.

Have a look to see what’s available a few months out to get a little bit of an idea with the types of rental properties available and what the cheaper rentals are like.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii tend to be a cheaper option than the popular Waikiki Beach hotels, making accommodation a great area to save money!

So take a look.

Hotel prices in Hawaii

Or, if you’re not feeling the airbnb thing, have a look to get a better idea of how much you can expect to pay for other types of accommodation:

• Best hotels in Waikiki
• Best Waikiki hotels for families
• Best hostels in Waikiki

Eating in Hawaii

Food for two: $250

Staying at a vacation rental also gives you the chance to save some money on food too. Find a rental in Hawaii that will give you kitchen access so you can cook food instead of eating out all the time.

Head to the grocery store in Hawaii: Foodland, Safeway, Times Supermarket

Before you leave for Hawaii, look for some grocery stores that are located close to where you’re staying so you know where to go.

Foodland, Safeway, and Times Supermarket are considered to be more of the discount grocery stores.

You can sign up for the loyalty cards when you’re at the cash register to save a few more dollars.

While making your own food will likely come out to be cheaper than eating out, the prices for almost all groceries in Hawaii are probably higher than what you pay at home.

Cheap meal idea #1

To save money, make things like pasta. As an example, flavor it with tomato paste diluted with water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Your vacation rental host may have some of these seasonings available for use. You can buy jars of pasta sauce in Hawaii too, but tomato paste is usually cheaper.

You may consider bringing dried pasta from home, and if you do so, make it elbow macaroni to get more food for less space in your suitcase.

Cheap meal idea #2

While not the healthiest of options, pasta-roni or rice-a-roni type of dishes can make for easy and cheap food in Hawaii.

You can probably find it for $1 at your home grocery store on sale, so be on the lookout for it.  Knorr has these in a pouch  instead of a box so they will take up less space in your luggage.

Make it at night ahead of time, wait for it to cool down, and then put the cooked food in a ziplock bag, then the fridge, so you can have it as a picnic lunch the next day!

The pouch says it includes multiple servings, but when you’re quite active throughout the day, the whole thing makes for a good meal for a single person.

Try this at home first to see if you like it.

And when carrying it in your daypack, it’s also a good idea to put the food with an extra layer like with a plastic bag or a ziplock storage bag to protect against any spillage.

Spend money on fruits and veggies

But also spend a few extra dollars on fresh produce or frozen vegetables to make sure you’re not completely neglecting healthy eating. You want to make sure you have plenty of energy during your Hawaii vacation!

Food that’s special to Hawaii to spend money on

Another area you may want to spend a few extra dollars:

1.  Leonard’s Bakery for a malasada donut: about $1 per person

2.  Matsumoto for shave ice: about $4 per person

3.  Paina Cafe for a poke bowl Hawaiian dish: about $10 per person

4. Dole Plantation for a Dole pineapple whip : about $7 per person

Leonard’s kind of near Diamond Head and Matsumoto’s on the North Shore are popular tourist points of interest.

And there is a Paina Cafe location near the popular attractions of  Hanauma Bay for snorkeling and Koko Head for hiking .

Dole Plantation you may consider fitting in on your way to the North Shore from Waikiki.

Of course, cost of food also depends on your appetite!

And the more active you are in Hawaii, the more you may want to eat!

If it goes with your food, like pasta or rice, add canola oil to your food to give you more calories. This can help so you don’t get hungry as easily, so you’re not feeling like you’re depriving yourself or that you need to buy more food.

Activities in Hawaii

Activities for two: $115

Much of this cost of activities in Oahu are for bus tickets.

If you like hiking, snorkeling, or just lazing on the beach, there are plenty of budget activities with free and cheap things to do in Hawaii!

Some activities do require more time in transit on the bus when you’re in Hawaii on a budget, but not renting a car when you are two people can often mean money saved.

The bus costs $5.50 for a single day pass. Here’s more about taking the bus on Oahu.

Oahu is really the most convenient Hawaiian island to take the bus to get around to different places of interest for tourists. In this aspect, it makes Oahu a budget-friendly island when it comes to a Hawaii vacation.

You may consider renting a car for one day to do a drive around Oahu , but that’s not included in this sample Hawaii trip for two.

Renting a car can be around $40-50, and your total cost will also depend on how much gas you use up.

Also consider that parking fees in Waikiki can add up, but you may be able to avoid those fees with a vacation rental in a residential neighborhood! See all of the perks that come with these types of vacation rentals  that help you save money? 😉

As a start, next are some sample days that can help you to stay on budget in Hawaii.

The costs below include bus tickets and admission fees, if there are any.

Since the bus will be $5.50 per person, consider that it will cost $11 for two if you’re not staying within walking distance of any of your activities.

This is also assuming that you’re staying somewhere within walking distance of Waikiki.

Also, while there is snorkel rental on Oahu available, you may want to bring your own snorkeling gear.

So now, here is how much some days in Hawaii may cost you, with the price listed being the total for two people:

Diamond Head hiking (fee)  +  Waikiki snorkeling  = $15

Hanauma Bay snorkeling (fee)  = $25

Lanikai Pillbox hiking  + Lanikai Beach + Kailua Beach  (walk between these places) = $10

North Shore: Shark’s Cove snorkeling + Waimea Valley waterfalls and botanical garden (fee)  (walk between these places) = $45

Manoa Falls hiking = $10

Pearl Harbor = $10

What other budget-friendly activities are there in Hawaii?

Well, good thing there’s this Oahu map for you to explore! 😉

• Best short hikes on Oahu
• Best snorkeling spots on Oahu
• Hawaiian culture activities
• Things to do in Oahu by bus

things to do in oahu | map >> waikiki –  east oahu – north shore – central oahu

Protecting your trip to Hawaii with travel insurance

Travel insurance for two: $85

There are a few different factors that determine how much your travel insurance will be.

There are also different levels of coverage.

This price point is under the best coverage (top plan) that includes emergency medical, travel delays, baggage delays, as well as the trip cancellation and trip interruption that comes with the most basic plans.

This may seem like a lot to tack on to your cost of a trip to Hawaii, but you’re likely planning your Hawaii vacation months ahead of time.

You just can’t predict what will happen during that time. And for during your vacation itself, the more active you are, the chance of something happening does increase a little.

And if something does happen to your flight itinerary or your luggage, or worse yet, to you, the amount that you spend on travel insurance can save you a ton of money! (And stress!)

Extras: $100

There are probably things that you will come across when you’re in Hawaii that you’ll want (or need) to spend money on. And for that, an extra $100 has been added in. How generous. 😉

One expense that you will be sure to have that wasn’t listed in any of the categories above is getting to and from the Honolulu airport . As a budget traveler, it is possible to take the bus to get to your vacation rental.

But if this is your plan, you need to travel with a backpack, as large suitcases are not allowed on the bus.

You need to be able to sit it on your lap and not overflow into someone else’s space. You can also likely get away with a carry-on suitcase on the bus, but do so at your own risk! (I have seen carry-on suitcases on buses.)

Otherwise, it really depends on where you’re staying, but you can likely expect to pay $30-40 for a taxi from the Honolulu airport to Waikiki or somewhere around there.

Although taking an uber from the airport used to be illegal , it may be an option now. And then you’ll need to pay the same to get back to the airport.

Calculating your own travel budget for a trip to Hawaii

This guide to a Hawaii travel budget isn’t meant to serve as a definitive guide at all .

There are so many factors that can influence how much it will cost you to go to Hawaii.

This ranges from what type of traveler you are to the timing of purchasing your flight and vacation rental.

But, hopefully it gives you a start in terms of things to think about!

Some of the estimates listed above may require you to try a little bit harder to stay within that price range.

Some of the numbers in this Hawaii budget may initially seem unrealistic. Well, this mainly applies to food.

But again, if you plan ahead of time and are committed to saving money on a trip to Hawaii, it is possible!

Remember, this cost estimate also doesn’t include anything you’ll want to buy to bring to Hawaii.

This can include things like snorkeling gear that you might want when you’re thinking about what to wear snorkeling and hiking gear that you might want when you’re thinking about what to wear hiking .

HAPPY HAWAII TRIP PLANNING!

Best shoes for your active vacation, swimwear for snorkeling and beach.

How Much Does a 2024 Hawaii Trip Cost? (+ Budget Saving Tips)

What family doesn’t dream of a visit to Hawaii? The Hawaiian Islands hold incredible appeal and intrigue for families as a vacation destination. With spectacular beaches, incredible landscapes, and kid-friendly resorts, it seems easy enough to pack your bags and head across the Pacific for a Hawaii vacation. But how much does a Hawaii trip cost? We’ve crunched the numbers to come up with guidelines for a Hawaiian vacation budget.

Below is an outline of travel costs that families can use when visiting Hawaii for the first time . This includes the approximate cost of flights and accommodations, how much to pay when renting a car in Hawaii, what time of year to travel in order to save money, and how to plan for the cost of special experiences like a helicopter tour of Mauna Kea or surf lessons.

With the right planning, your family can determine how best to allocate your precious travel savings to design the Hawaii vacation package of your dreams. If you want to cut this budget down, check out these 105 tips for doing Hawaii on a budget . These are also some great tips for saving money to travel .

Hawaii Budget Assumptions

For calculating Hawaii trip costs, this post will outline pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 , traveling from the east coast of the United States in the summer months , and spending 5 nights each on Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii , for a total of 10 nights, 11 days.

These islands were chosen because they offer the common introductory Hawaiian experiences: Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the North Shore, while the Big Island of Hawaii has a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing, and is home to six of Hawaii’s nine national parks including the best options for volcano viewing and hiking. You can use this guide to pick the best Hawaiian island for your family.

I have organized the costs of a trip to Hawaii by airfare, car rental/transportation, accommodations, food, and activities , including tips and ideas for savings in each category. If you want to skip to the bottom line, a summer trip to Hawaii for a family of four for 10 nights costs approximately $16,690, or about $417.25 per person, per day. But read on to see how this breaks down and where you can save money.!

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

Note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

The biggest cost differentiator when purchasing flights is whether your family is flying from the west coast of the U.S. or somewhere else (midwest, east coast, etc.) Expect to pay around $865-1,300 per person traveling from one of the east coast hubs in the summer months, while flights from California may be $700-900 in the summer.

Honolulu on Oahu has more flight connections to and from mainland U.S. airports than any other Hawaiian airport, so that is typically the point of arrival or departure. To maximize your vacation time, be sure to price out flying into Oahu and out of the Big Island (Kona is the largest airport on the Big Island) or vice versa.

This will save you another inter-island flight back to your initial destination for your return flight. If you choose Maui as your second island, you can often find direct flights from Maui to many U.S. cities.

Another huge cost savings can be gained by flying mid-week if at all possible. Flights in and out of Hawaii jump up in price on Saturdays and Sundays since it is primarily a leisure travel destination, not a business location.

Flight prices are also dependent on the time of year. The festive period, Thanksgiving week, and popular spring break weeks will price out similarly to summer dates, if not more. January and February are typically the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii if you have the flexibility to get away then.

For inter-island flights (like connections between the Big Island and Oahu), Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele are your best bets. Hawaiian Airlines will feel similar to a full-service airline, and importantly, you can use or earn points on most of the major U.S. airlines like Delta and United when booking flights on this airline because of their mutual affiliation.

Mokulele is a typical low-budget airline. Expect limited service and no frills, but it certainly works and there can be significant cost savings, given that it is a very short flight time.

Prices for an inter-island flight are usually under $60 per person for a one-way flight and most flights are less than one hour in length. Do take note of flight departure times, though. It’s always best to schedule these inter-island flights for mid-day, so that your family is in the air between check-out time at one hotel and check-in time at the next hotel. Early morning departures may be a little cheaper, but then you’re stuck filling several hours before you can check into your next accommodation.

Be aware that Southwest Airlines does offer direct flights from several California airports to all the major Hawaiian Islands. Remember that Southwest prices aren’t published on flight comparison sites, so you must book directly with the airline.

For this post, I assumed that families would spend $900 per person to get to and from Hawaii, and then another $60 per person on a one-way inter-island flight. You’d want to budget for an additional inter-island flight if you need to get back to your island of arrival for your return flight to the mainland U.S., however.

I’d highly recommend signing up for Going to get alerts on flight sales to your dream destinations.

Total airfare cost: $3,840

Cost of Accommodations in Hawaii

Basic rooms that sleep four at full-service luxury resorts, like Disney’s Aulani on Oahu or Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island, price out around $700 per night in the summer months. You can easily spend $1,000 a night or more for more spacious accommodation, like larger suites or condos with kitchens at these properties.

For budget travelers, even three-star hotels in Hawaii price out at around $250-400 per night in the summer months. Often these properties sacrifice beach access or beautiful locations and expect rooms to be quite basic. But most will have that sought-after amenity of a great pool so they certainly work for families who don’t require a lot of frills.

For those who veer away from resorts and toward quieter, self-catering accommodations, expect vacation rentals to range from $250-1,500 per night in the summer. Prices on the Big Island tend to be a little lower and a better value overall than Oahu.

Keep in mind that having a kitchen may bring down your food costs, especially if you choose to cook some meals yourself, or simply prepare basic breakfasts and sandwiches and keep drinks and snacks cold. Resorts are not known for inexpensive food, after all.

Also, take note of what’s included when booking resort vacation packages in Hawaii. Some include the cost of all the on-site amenities, while others do not. Complimentary breakfast is not always a given here, either. Other properties have a big markup when it comes to daily resort fees ($30 per person per day is not uncommon). Reading the fine print is important for this style of accommodation.

Another cost-saving strategy is to book early, especially for peak summer dates. Many of the popular resorts are fully booked for July and August by February. So booking accommodation in the fall for summer travel makes a lot of sense just so you have access to all the room category options. Plus, many properties offer pay-in-advance discounts, though you’ll definitely want to invest in travel insurance should you decide to take advantage of those lower rates.

See the 9 best Maui resorts for families and the 7 best Oahu hotels for families .

I used the $700 average nightly rate for a lower category room at full-service resorts as my price calculation for accommodation costs.

Total Accommodation Cost: $7,000 for 10 nights

Transportation costs in Hawaii

Of course, if you want to get off the property of the resort and explore some of the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands, you are going to need a way to get around. The cost to rent a midsize SUV is typically around $400 for 5 days, including taxes and fees.

Be sure to book early if you’re traveling to Hawaii during busy periods; rental cars often sell out a few weeks prior to peak travel weeks. When calculating total transportation costs, I assumed families would rent a car on both Oahu and the Big Island for the duration of their trip, plus another $150 in gas and parking fees.

Check car rental prices on Kayak

While both islands have public transportation by way of bus routes, most families find this method of travel prohibitively time-consuming to get to the various spots that interest them. For families that envision not leaving the resort much, but still want a taste of both islands, you can book a driver to take you around for the day for around $600 per day.

If you opt not to rent a car, you’ll also need to account for airport transfers. Private transfers price out around $70-150 for one-way service to various accommodations within a reasonable drive of the airport.

Total Car Rental/Transportation Cost: $950

Food Costs in Hawaii

There’s no way around it: eating in Hawaii is expensive. Many families who don’t plan ahead and take this into account have serious sticker shock when they arrive. Remember, a lot of the food has traveled by boat for over a week to get to the Hawaiian Islands.

One great rule to keep in mind, both when grocery shopping and dining out, is to look for food that is sourced locally. Not only will it be cheaper, but it will taste fresher and reduce your carbon footprint. For example, stop at markets and roadside stands for produce. It’ll be a fraction of the cost of what fruits and vegetables cost at the grocery stores and it makes for a great cultural immersion experience.

This is another example of why renting a car ultimately often saves money: because resort mini-markets are very overpriced. If you can get to a big box store to stock up on snacks or simple meal ingredients, there will be cost savings. That said, even grocery shopping is expensive. If you’re on a very tight budget, consider doing a little research in advance. Most of Hawaii’s grocery store chains are affiliated with a mainland counterpart. You may be able to use your loyalty card from home for discounts.

Naturally, dining out is also pricey. Look for accommodations that provide complimentary breakfast; this will be a huge cost saver up front. Next, aim for more reasonably priced lunches, like roadside stands or packed picnic fixings while you’re out exploring. This way, lunch will cost about $12 per person, instead of $25, which you can expect to pay at resort restaurants. Then you can indulge in lovely dinners with a little less guilt about the price tag. Expect dinner to cost around $50 or more per person, younger children who order off a kid’s menu will be significantly less.

Given that, we can assume that families of four will spend around $250 per day on food costs.

Total Food Cost: $2,500

Tours and Activity Costs

Undoubtedly the top reason families love coming to Hawaii is the natural beauty: gorgeous views, incredible beaches, and diverse landscapes. Fortunately, this is all completely free to enjoy once you arrive.

It’s quite easy to spend days exploring the islands without spending a dime other than on food and gas. Add in a few days of leisurely enjoying resort amenities, and it means activities don’t have to break the bank compared to other travel expenses.

That said, a trip here is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so families tend to want to do and see it all while here. A favorite bucket list activity can include surf lessons, which can cost around $100-200 per person for an hour or two. You may also want to visit Pearl Harbor. See more suggestions on things to do in Oahu with kids .

Most of the national parks in Hawaii are free to enter, but the three that do charge entrance fees are around $30 per car. Check to see if your resort will host a luau dinner during your stay, or plan to arrange to attend one off-site one evening. The cost is around $120 per adult and kids are usually half off (but this includes dinner).

The big ticket item is usually a helicopter tour. Costs can differ drastically based on where you go, how long, and your departure point. Generally, a tour that originates in Hilo, the rainier side of the Big Island, is a cheaper location yet offers incredible views of the volcanoes that dot the island. The cost for this for a family of four is around $1556.

Total Activity Cost: $2,400

Of course, for a vacation this expensive, you want to make sure you purchase travel insurance .

Total Cost for a 10-day Trip to Hawaii

The total cost for a 10-day trip to Hawaii for a family of four is about $16,690. This assumes nice, four-star accommodations and a few splurges on activities and meals. Of course, you may also want to budget for some souvenirs from Hawaii , we were very tempted by some beautiful paintings when we visited!

As we discussed above, families can save money on more budget accommodations, vacation rentals, preparing their own meals, staying at a resort to use the pool and beach and not renting a car or doing other activities. For West Coast families, it is also easy to visit for just a week or even five days. But if you are traveling from the East Coast and taking a 10-hour flight, you probably want to stay at least 10 days.

One of the best ways to save is to use airline, hotel, or credit card points to offset some of those expenses. If it is going to be a trip of a lifetime, save those points to make it happen!

Let’s recap the Hawaii budget breakdown:

There are cheaper locations to travel to, especially if your family merely wants sunny weather and sandy beaches. But Hawaii is one of the most unique locations in the world, with its indigenous culture, lush landscapes and rugged mountains, and incredibly luxurious yet kid-friendly resorts.

It has a correspondingly hefty price tag, but families unanimously consider a trip here money well spent, and many return year after year. Here are some tips for planning a budget trip to Hawaii .

PIN THIS FOR LATER

This guest post was written by Nicole Wiltrout. Nicole is a freelance writer and travel expert based in Indiana. She has traveled throughout North America and Europe with her children for the past nine years, including three years spent living abroad in England. She has written for a variety of websites and publications and is the author of “Dispatches from England,” available on Amazon, which chronicles her family’s time as expats. You can follow Nicole’s travels on  Arrows Sent Forth .

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 27, 2023

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• First Time to Hawaii
• Rental Car Advice
• Saving Money

How much for a trip to Hawaii in 2024? (Hawaii vacation budget calculator)

• 8 minute read

52 comments

Table of contents hide, hawaii vacation flight budget , hawaii vacation accommodation budget, hawaii vacation rental car budget, hawaii vacation dining budget , national and state park entrance fees, example budget for a couple traveling to hawaii from the east coast for a week, other expenses to consider, final thoughts.

You’ve seen ads for Hawaii featuring photos of beautiful beaches lined with palm trees and the bluest of blue water. Now you want to go, but you have no idea how much a trip to Hawaii costs. Where do you start? Good news, you’ve found the right place to help you estimate a Hawaii vacation budget!

In this article, I’m providing you with the easy-to-use estimates to calculate your personal Hawaii trip budget. It can’t be exact, but it will give you a rough idea of how much to start budgeting for a Hawaii vacation.

Before we jump to the calculator, it’s worthwhile to discuss why there’s not an easy answer when it comes to determining a Hawaii vacation budget. The challenges are that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer since multiple factors influence the budget.

Let’s look at some of the main factors that influence a Hawaii vacation budget:

• When you go to Hawaii. Some dates/times are cheaper than others. When demand is down, so are the price of flights and hotels. See my post on the best time to go to Hawaii for tips.
• How far you’re flying. For example, West Coast flights are usually cheaper than Midwest or East Coast flights because there is less distance, i.e. less fuel and cost.
• Whether you typically prefer budget, mid-range or luxury hotels
• The length of your stay
• Whether you prefer fine dining or eating on the cheap.
• Whether you want to go on guided tours or you’re willing to sightsee on your own.

Though we can’t wave a magic want to determine your perfect budget for a Hawaii trip, you can review the following numbers to generate your budget to Hawaii. Just remember, these are rough numbers that can vary from city to city, island to island, etc.

I recommend that you print out this page to follow along for estimating your cost to visit Hawaii. At the bottom of this post, you will see an icon to generate a printer-friendly version of this page.

• East Coast to Hawaii – $900 per person (Note: we fly from the East Coast to Hawaii. Over our many trips to Hawaii, we’ve spent as little as $575 and as much as $1250 per person.)
• Midwest – $750 per person
• West Coast – $475 per person (We’ve seen round-trip fares as low as $124 on a fare sale, but those are rare to find.)

To estimate your flight costs:

______ cost per person   x  ______ number of travelers   = ______ estimated cost of flights

The cost of accommodations mostly vary based on the type of property – budget to luxury. (In our many trips to Hawaii, we’ve paid as little as $150 per night to as much as $525 and up.) In 2023, the average daily hotel rate was $378 per night per data reported by the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

You can find hotels and condos that are fairly nice and clean for less than the average — especially if you are willing to book a room or condo without an ocean view. (See our article for advice on saving money on Hawaii accommodations .) You can also spend significantly more if you’re aiming for a luxury Hawaii vacation.

In addition to the hotel rate, there are more accommodation costs to add, unfortunately. Those costs are taxes and resort fees. You can’t avoid taxes, but you might be able to avoid resort fees for your Hawaii hotel .

Let’s start with taxes. Though taxes can vary slightly by island, as for 2023, plan on spending roughly 18% in taxes.

The next cost to include in your budget is resort fees. We hate these fees, but unfortunately, they’ve become the norm rather than the exception in Hawaii. Resort fees can vary significantly from resort to resort and statewide data is not tracked for these fees. Our best estimate based on our knowledge and experience would be a nightly rate of $35.

So, if we tack on taxes (18%) and resort fees (approximately $35) to the average daily rate of $378, the total comes to $481 per night. To estimate your cost for lodging using the statewide average follow this formula:

$481 (avg cost/night)   x  ______ number of nights   x ______number of rooms you need = _______ estimated cost of accommodations

(Of course you can spend more or less than $481 per night, but that gives you a starting point to estimate the cost to stay in Hawaii.)

You will most likely want a rental car for Hawaii sightseeing adventures. If you are staying on Lanai or in Waikiki, you might not need a rental car, but for all other Hawaii destinations, I highly recommend getting a rental car. (See more about where we advise renting a car in Hawaii .)

Depending on what you rent and which method of booking, rental car rates will vary. See our tips for saving money on rental cars in Hawaii .

Prior to the 2021 rental car shortage, including taxes, you could have expected to use a rough number of $40 per day for an economy or mid-sized car. When the demand for rental cars bottomed out in 2020, rental car companies sold off much of their fleets. Then in 2021, when more people started traveling, rental cars became difficult to find and extremely expensive in Hawaii . Though the rental car companies have increased their fleets since the 2021 shortage, prices are still much higher than before. If you can get a rate for under $75 per day with taxes, you’ve probably found a good deal. Pricing varies significantly by island and by demand. For our budgeting calculations, let’s estimate $75 per day with taxes.

To estimate your cost for renting a car, use this formula:

$75 per day   x  _______ number of days =  _______ estimated cost of rental car

Estimating the cost to dine in Hawaii is yet another one of those factors that can range from a little to a lot.  As a rough round number, I think estimating $80 per person per day is doable without skimping too much or overdoing it. (See our tips for saving money on dining and meals in Hawaii .) That would be $20 for breakfast, $20 for lunch, and $40 for dinner. (By the way, it’s not unheard of to drop $45 or more for breakfast or lunch at high-end Hawaii resorts.)

To estimate your budget for meals, use this formula:

$80 per person per day x _______ number of people x _______ number of nights =   ________ estimated cost for meals

Up until 2020, very few Hawaii state and national parks charged an entrance fee. Unfortunately, new fees have gone into effect across the islands in 2021. As such, we recommend planning some of your vacation budget spends. Each park has a different fee structure, so, again, there’s not a one-size-fits-all estimate. Some have a per-car entry fee while others have a reservation fee, plus parking fee, plus a per person entrance fee. For budgeting purposes, we recommend an estimate of $50 per person for the entire trip.

$50 per person per trip x _______ number of people = ________ estimated cost for entry fees

Total Budget for Your Hawaii Vacation

Now, add up each of the four estimates to get your budget.

Estimated cost of flights _______

Estimated cost of accommodations _______

Estimated cost of rental car _______

Estimated cost for meals ________

Estimated cost for park entry fees _________

==================================

______________ = Your rough budget to vacation in Hawaii

Now, using the numbers above, I calculated the following for a 7-night Hawaii vacation for two people flying from the East Coast.

Flights = $900 per person x 2 people = $1,800

Accommodations = $481 per night  x 7 nights = $3,367

Rental car = $75 per day x 8 days = $600 (I use eight days instead of seven since most times the return hour is later than pick up.)

Dining = $80 per person per day x 2 people x 7 days = $1,120

Park entry fees = $50 per person per trip x 2 people = $100

The grand total for this example is $6,987 .

These estimates do not include:

• Guided tours, such as helicopter tours, guided hikes, snorkeling excursions, etc. Hawaii offers many free and inexpensive things to see and do. Check out our post with advice on saving money on Hawaii vacation tours and activities .
• Parking fees which some hotels charge while others don’t. Be sure to determine parking costs as you consider your accommodation options.   Parking fees in Waikiki and Ko Olina on Oahu and Kaanapali and Wailea on Maui can be particularly expensive. If you choose a VRBO condo option, you are less likely to pay a parking fee. For an estimate on parking fees, plan for an average of $30 per night.
• Rental car refueling costs. Gas costs depend on the length of your stay and how much you plan to explore by car. Just one word of caution, Hawaii’s gas prices are higher than the US Mainland.
• Island hopping in Hawaii via ferry or plane

I want to reiterate that your exact costs depend on your preferences and a bit of luck. You might catch an airfare sale and save $100 to $300 per person. You might find a hotel deal that includes breakfast. I could go on and on.

If you have a Costco membership, look at their vacation packages that include hotel and car. We have often found deals through Costco Travel that include room, breakfast, resort fees and car that are significantly less than what we find anywhere else.

You can definitely spend less in each of the main categories. On the flip side, you can certainly spend more – a lot more. It’s all up to you. I just wanted to provide rough numbers that are, in my opinion, realistic, middle of the road costs.

How much money do you budget when you go to Hawaii? What is your length of stay with that budget?

When we find extraordinary deals, we let our readers know. If you’re not already receiving our free email subscriptions, carefully enter your email address at this link .

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

Thanks! This was helpful!!

Glad to hear it’s helpful, Dawne. Thanks for the kind feedback.

Informative post, Sheila! I would also add gratuity to the list of expenses. That can add up depending on how generous you want to be for housekeeping and the wait staff when dining out.

For my upcoming Hawaii trip, I actually factored in my award miles that I’ve accrued over the last couple years. Luckily, I was able to use my miles to book my roundtrip airfare…saving up to $650 if I had paid for it.

Thanks for your comment, Michael.

I did have gratuities in mind for the dining estimates.

Very helpful, thanks for this. I think people underestimate how much things will cost and it’s important to sit down and go through a detailed list – including the little things you mention that they might not originally think of like souvenirs, tours, etc.

True, Josh. As I started to calculate the expenses for flights, hotel, car, and dining, I was surprised at how quickly it added up.

its really helpful. Will let my friends know about it.

Hey for the airfare cost the estimated flying cost you came up with is that for a round trip? or only to Hawii? I would love to know a how much I need for in a couple years Im planning to flyout there with my boyfriend!

The airfare cost is for round trip tickets.

Very useful post, thanks!

I just booked a trip to Kauai, HI for April, 2013 for 8 nights and 9 days. Roundtrip airfair, hotel and rental car, i even included resort fees, rental car taxes, and parking at the airport in my home state (Colorado). There are two of us going and NOT including meals,gas for rental car and souviners. Total was $3415.00. That is only $1707.74 a person. SO you can do alot cheaper if you look. My advice is find a reputable travel agent. They know of discounts that we cant find.. Have fun.!!

Random. We live in Colorado and are planning our first trip to Hawaii in September of this year. I’d love to know who you worked with to get you those great prices!

U did awesome. I need a lesson . did u look this up or did u have a travel agent?

Hi thank you for the great information. Will you happen to know if Nov is a good time to go to Hawaii? I know flights look like they go for cheaper, but I have no idea on the weather. Most likely to visit Maui. Thank you

Alex – See this post that provides more details on the best times to visit Hawaii – https://www.govisithawaii.com/2007/10/15/the-best-times-to-visit-hawaii/

Just starting our “three 50 year old gals” trip to Hawaii planning. Need all the advice we can get! this site is helpful for sure. Thanks so much.

Hello everyone, I NEED HELP!!!! My cousin has invited me to visit her in Honolulu. I always thought I would visit her in the fall so I would always check for airfare flying from san diego to honolulu in the fall, but it looks like i wont be able to visit her until March 2015…. I had not researched tickets during sprink break in Hawaii and have no idea what the average decent price to pay is. Right now im looking at Hawaiian airlines $634 per person ..is this a good price to pay as they were as cheap as $350 during fall season just last year

Laura – there’s no way to know if airfare will increase or decrease. Our guess is that it will most likely decrease. Read this article that provides strategies for finding the lowest airfare to Hawaii: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2010/05/10/strategies-for-finding-lowest-airfare-to-hawaii/

Sheila thank you for responding sooo quickly. I understand prices can go up or down, another family member went to honolulu from san diego for $900 last March and I really didnt believe it but then again he got his tickets 2 weeks before so I guess you never know right?

Firstly…for first timers to Hawaii found this site superb. My better I/2 and I leave next week for 7 days on Oahu (Waikiki) followed by a week on Maui (Lahania). With business class flights there and back using airmiles ($7500 Cdn for $380 round trip). Hotel in Waikki with breakfast, $1248 taxes in, and Maui same price no breakfast. Airport transfers are the $23 (Oahu) bucks and 58 (Maui). Inter island flight 55 bucks. Plan travelling on bus tours/trolley bus etc…no plans to rent a car this time around. I have just retired at 52…and hope to get to know the islands well in the years ahead. Including via a cruise. Thanks again for putting the site together. It’s solidly bookmarked!

Kev – thanks for the kind words and for sharing the costs for your upcoming trip to Oahu and Maui. Enjoy!

Dear Shelia, I have a question. I need to find three airlines that match 3600 dollars, as there are 4 people in my family. Your post was very helpful, and so I thought maybe you were the person who could find hotels that match 3600 dollars. Can you please do this for me? Thanks, Lily.

Hi Lily – a travel agent would be glad to assist you with that. (We aren’t travel agents.)

Just finished planning and budgeting our first trip to Hawaii. It’ll only be a few days, and I’m going to take the cheapest route possible, if only to serve as a reference point for our next trip.

With the flight/ hotel package, we’re paying 600 a person, leaving from California. Including meals, that brings us to about 1650. ( I don’t plan on skimping the meal budget, there has to be a limit to my frugality) I may rent a scooter to sight see or necessary travel, but I’m really hoping to not drive around too much, thus negating the rental car cost. This keeps us under 2,000 dollars. I’m still going to budget for 3,000, as I don’t want this trip to sour in the interest of saving money.

Rick – hope you beat your budget. Come back and tell us how it works out after your trip to Hawaii.

Thanks for this post! I think this is a really good starting point when planning for a Hawaii trip. These are pretty typical middle of the road budgets. My husband and I just got back from a trip this month and saved significantly by using points for flights, renting a well equipped guest house in Kona (Big Island) for $110 a night and cooking all but 3 of our dinners over 10 days (2 travel days). Our actual amount spent for the full 10 days (including travel days) was: Flights: $20 House Rental 8 nights (with cleaning and taxes): $1150 Rental Car: $241 Other Travel (airport parking + rental car gas): $180 Food: $463 Activities and Shopping (fishing charter, manta ray snorkel, tour, spa, tips, gifts: $1153 Grand Total: $3207

We intentionally saved significantly by getting groceries (and gas) at Costco and cooking our own dinners primary as well as staying in a rental guest house instead of a resort so we could splurge more on activities. I like the idea of using the numbers above to plan as a baseline with the idea that you can save if you are intentionally thrifty in some areas. I agree $50-$70 per person per day is very typical if you plan to eat every meal out. We spent $60 one night that we want out for sushi (without drinks) and even the really casual places like Pizza Hut are more expensive there (around $35 for 2 people including sodas).

Tiffany – thanks for adding your actually Hawaii trip cost numbers.

My husband and I took our honeymoon in Hawaii about a year ago and ended up spending over 7100$ between everything for 8 days. Your calculator is a great tool for a base estimate with the exception of excursion costs. If you plan on doing any excursions/sightseeing/surf lessons/pearl harbor/luaus… those can add up as quickly as food, especially if you do any helicopter rides (which avg 60$ per 10min). We split our time in Honolulu exploring Ohau and in Maui and spent probably and avg of 275$ (between us) a day on excursions alone, although I would estimate that 150-200$ a day is a more normal estimate for a couple, or 75-100$ per day per person.

Rebecca – yes, excursions do quickly add up! Thanks for adding your estimate for what you spent on tours. We do note in the article that tours are an extra expense to consider when budgeting a trip to Hawaii. However, many people don’t like going on guided tours, so including tour costs is not a Hawaii trip requirement/necessity. There are a ton of amazing things to see and do in Hawaii without ever going on paid tours. For example, seeing Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is absolutely free, so there’s no need to pay a tour company to go to Pearl Harbor.

Regarding luaus, it’s worth noting that a luau includes dinner, so in budgeting, either budget in a dinner or a luau, but not both.

Sheila, I would like your input on a matter. I have never been to Hawaii, but have always longed to since a child. I would like to plan a trip there in the future, but I am not sure where to go. You see I am more interested in the more primitive parts of the land, as opposed to the more “touristy” part. I love the idea of the volcanos and wonderful hiking trails and being close to the naturalistic aspect of the country. But I still would like to be near some nice beaches. If you’ve seen enough of Hawaii maybe you can give me some input. Thanks!

Jasmine – check out our article that’s designed to pick the perfect island(s) for your Hawaii vacation: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2010/06/28/how-to-pick-the-best-hawaiian-islands-for-your-vacation/ You can download free guides and there are lots of resources. Almost every island suits your interests, but if you review the resources, it should help you hone in on the islands that seem to resonate with you the most. I will add that our favorite island for hiking is Kauai.

Thanks, for the value information.

Thanks for this information! We are travelling from New Zealand to Hawaii early 2016 and have absolutely no idea how much to expect to pay in terms of food, accommodation etc. Are all islands similar in price? We are looking at heading to Oahu and Big Island for 7 days each. I am amazed at how realistic traveling to Hawaii is for us – flights are only $1000NZD return(approx. $690USD) the biggest cost seems to be accommodation

Leah – that’s an amazing deal on flights! It costs many folks on the US mainland more than that!

The average accommodation price on Maui is higher than the other islands. Restaurant prices on Oahu seem to be a tad lower compared to the other islands. Also, you can usually get a better deal on a luau on Oahu.

My boyfriend and I went to Kauai this last October for a week and are planning for another trip in a year or two. We saved significantly on flights by using frequent flyer points. Our costs were: flight: free (would be around $800-$900 per person from the mid-west), hotel: $800 (“garden” facing room and a discount after switching from another hotel), rental car: $250, food: (estimate) $100 per day, we did spend a significant amount at Walmart on things like snacks, cases of water, and beach towels (which were nowhere to be found in Kansas in October). We did a lot of free activities, but did pay $60 to Kayak Kauai for a really stellar kayak trip and bought a lot of souvenirs (tshirts, rum, coffee, etc). We spent somewhere around $2,000 for the week. We saved huge on flights and are pretty darn cheap in most other aspects. That being said, we had a great time and plan to again! You don’t have to spend a lot to really enjoy yourself 🙂

Our daughter is serving as a camp counselor in Oahu North Shore this summer, so we (five of us) are planning to visit in late June for her birthday. Does anyone know the cost to visit the Big Island from Oahu? This might be my closest shot at seeing the Mauna Kea summit.

Brett –

You can find guided day tours to the Big Island from Oahu. They include everything like flights, ground transportation and guided tour.

A cheaper method is to plan your own trip. Use the resources on this post to price out the cost of inter-island flights: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2009/03/24/a-guide-to-inter-island-travel-in-hawaii/ You’d need a rental car as well. See our page on saving money on rental cars: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2011/01/19/7-hawaii-car-rental-money-saving-ideas/

This is very informative. We will be taking our first trip in May 2017 and this helped me a lot in knowing what to expect financially speaking.

I am planning a trip to Hawaii around jan,Feb of 2018, approximately 8 people. I’m wondering how much it might cost to fly round trip?

Look at the Flights section of the above article. It has all the resources for you to estimate your own costs.

My husband and I are planning our honeymoon to Maui in the first week of December. We would love to stay at a nice resort like the Sheraton/ Westin/ grand wailea and I’ve found good deals for this time of year but I’ve read that these get really crowded. Being that it’s an off season time do you think the beach and pools will be more quiet?

See this post about a December vacation in Hawaii: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2014/11/05/is-december-a-good-month-for-vacation-in-hawaii/ which indicates that early December is a very quiet time to visit Hawaii. If the hotels are busy depends on if there is a convention going on. Call the hotels directly to find out.

We are planning our first trip to Hawaii in Jun of 2018. The wife and I turn 50, it’s our 20th Anniversary, and it’s our son’s HS graduation. It’s our “Once in a Lifetime” trip! I’ve been saving for about 3 years and we’ve saved about $10K for our family of four. Our dates are just now opening up to book for June of ’18 and it’s been a bit of a shock! Looks like I’m gonna need to save at least another $3-4K before next year. The one option we may decide to use is AirBNB rather than staying in hotel/restorts. I hate the idea of my kids having to sleep on a sleeper sofa when they can sleep in an actual bed. I also hate the idea of all those resort fees and parking fees. Anyways, thanks for some great articles and tips. As much as I hate “procrastinating”, we might need to wait a little bit to see if the airfares drop more since the sweet spot recommendation for lower prices is about 5-6 months out.

Yay! I am so glad I found this article because when it comes to planning for a trip… my mind is all over the place! This made it so simpler! Like really easy and small and really the only thing I’ll have to figure costs for is the places I want to check out which should be easy to book online. Hawaii will be my second oversees trip and it is going to be with significant other and it will be our first trip so I wanted it to be fun and he wants to go too. Thank you for this article because it made it so more easier for me!

sheila your calculator is very helpful you do a great job my wife &i are planing a trip to celebrate our 54th wed aniv. oct 2018 i belive most estim. are spot on but do not forget travel insur. unless you are a big gambler many thanks for all you do

Great article! I’m planning a 10 day trip to Oahu and Big Island in May 2018. From my research and bookings this seems like pretty good estimates except for the rental car estimates. I think this was posted a few years ago. I’m finding the lowest prices on rental cars run about 75.00 per day for economy and then up into the 80.00’s for midsize and full size.

thank you so much so helpful I’m levying to night

Love this thank u so much it is helping me buget for 4 people when we go next year

The two of us just did 8 nights (4 in Kauai, 4 in Maui) for $3002 (or $1501 each) for just the flights, lodging and rental car. However, if we had just stayed in Maui, rather than flying to Kauai too, it would have only been $2502… but I was dead set on hopping over to Kauai, and it was more than worth it!. After including all other expenses like food, parking, gas, and activities (sunset catamaran, doors-off helicopter, a luau, and snorkeling), it came to $4432, or $2216 each. It helped that our flights to Maui from Austin were only $247 round trip since we purchased during the Southwest deal. Our round trip inter-island flights from Maui to Kauai actually cost more than getting to Hawaii in the first place! We also used Hotwire to get our lodging at the last minute (2 days before for each location), so we were able to get condos that are normally $300/nt for less than $150/nt. For the rental cars we used Discount Hawaii Car Rental to book them and kept checking prices up until the date of the trip to rebook if prices declined (which they did more than once, including just 2 days beforehand, so keep checking!). We booked a jeep for both locations so we could have the top down and have 4 wheel drive, but if you rent a smaller car, your rental car would be half what ours was (ours was about $475 total, both islands). Our food total was less than $200 for the entire trip, but two of our activities also provided food (dinner catamaran and luau). We only ate at sit down restaurants twice, and most of our meals (including the very best ones!) were from small markets and food trucks. The best poke we had was from Ishihara market and cost only $5 bucks for a container plus a side of rice! Our activities total was $1257. We got a military discount on many of the activities so if you are military/veteran always ask if they have one! We splurged for a private doors-off helicopter (which i absolutely recommend over doors-on, its totally worth it!) @ $310 each. $112 each for the Old Lahaina Luau, and $148 each for sunset Na Pali catamaran w/surf & turf dinner and open bar included. For snorkeling, we just rented snorkeling gear in each location and went at our leisure to various spots on the islands. We did some free activities which were just as exciting and memorable, if not more than, some of the expensive ones. These included hiking the Awa’awapuhi, Pihea & Alakai swamp trails, seeing Waimea canyon, and driving the Road to Hana (and all the fun stops along the way of course). The views on the Kauai trails and swimming in the waterfalls/beaches along the Road to Hana were unforgettable and absolute highlights of our trip, so it’s definitely possible to spend $0 on activities in Hawaii and not regret it.

Hope this info helps. We loved it so much there, we are already tentatively planning our next trip!

Been to Hawaii 5 times, recent as August this year. Probably not any more. The Australian dollar is crap, the hotel prices, drinks and costs are going through the roof. Shame as we love it.

Is there any all inclusive resorts in Hawaii? I maybe Maui

Not really — see this article about the lack of all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii: https://www.govisithawaii.com/2012/03/28/should-you-look-for-an-all-inclusive-hawaii-vacation/ As you will read, Hawaii doesn’t really need all-inclusive resorts.

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Find cheap flights to Hawaii from $107

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to hawaii departing on 5/18. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to hawaii.

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Best Hawaii Flight Deals

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Good to know

Faqs - booking hawaii flights, i’m traveling to big island. which airport should i choose when booking flights to hawaii.

The best airport for passengers traveling to Big Island will probably depend on the reason for your trip. If you’re going mainly for the resorts and beaches on the West Kona side, then the best airport is Kona International Airport. If you’re going for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, then the best airport is Hilo International Airport.

I want to hike in Hawaii. Which island should I travel to?

Kauai, Big Island, Molokai, Oahu, and Maui are the best islands in Hawaii for hiking. Big Island, Oahu, and Maui are all served by major international airports with nonstop flights from the continent. Kauai and Molokai also have airports, but travelers from the States will need to travel to Honolulu (in Oahu) first, and then take an inter-island flight to their final destination.

How can I travel from the Honolulu airport to Waikiki beach?

Waikiki Beach is less than 20 min from the Honolulu Airport. You can travel by private shuttle ($18 per person on average), taxi ($30 per ride on average), or you can use a rideshare service ($23-30 per ride on average). If you’re planning on exploring the island beyond Waikiki, you can rent a car at the airport. You’ll find offices for Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise at the baggage claim area.

Which airports in Hawaii are closer to the beach?

The airports in Hawaii closest to the beach are Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island (13 min to Ala Moana Beach Park), Kona International Airport on Big Island (7 min to Wawaloli Beach Park), and Kahului Airport on Maui island (6 min to Kanaha Beach Park).

How long is the flight to Hawaii?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Hawaii takes 7h 41m, covering a distance of 3332 miles. The most popular route is Los Angeles - Honolulu with an average flight time of 5h 37m.

What is the cheapest flight to Hawaii?

The cheapest ticket to Hawaii from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $45 one-way, and $242 round-trip. The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Honolulu and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $274.

Which airlines fly to Hawaii?

Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air & United Airlines fly the most frequently from the United States to Hawaii.

What are the most popular destinations in Hawaii?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Honolulu (58% of total searches to Hawaii). The next most popular destinations are Kahului (17%) and Kailua-Kona (11%). Searches for flights to Lihue (11%), to Hilo (1%) and to Kapalua (0.7%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Hawaii

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Hawaii flight deals.
• If you’re looking for beach- and family-friendly destinations when booking your flights to Hawaii, look for flights into the islands of Kauai, Big Island, Maui, and Oahu. They are served by Lihue Airport (LIH), Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO), Kahului Airport (OGG), and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), respectively.
• If you want to take your time exploring the islands, you can fly from the mainland into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island, and then take domestic flights to the other islands. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest are two of the companies that operate inter-island flights.
• Most first-time travelers to Hawaii choose Maui as their destination, but keep in mind that there are fewer nonstop flights from the continental US landing at Maui’s Kahului Airport. Most flights from the mainland connect via the Honolulu airport on Oahu island.
• If you’re planning to go on whale-watching tours, look for flights to Hawaii on the island of Kauai. Although practically every island is excellent for whale-watching activities, Kauai has a greater range of possible spotting locations.
• For golfers, Hawaii means golf courses that are as gorgeous as they are high-quality. If you don’t know where to start, consider traveling to the airport of Oahu. With 37 golf clubs, it’s the island with the most golf courses in America’s 50th state.

Top 5 airlines flying to Hawaii

Great. Loved that there was WiFi on flight to keep in touch and excellent service of beverages and snacks.

Business class is great. New airplane, very comfortable, better than some of the major airlines I am used to

Terrible. Flight was cancelled due to the weather in the east and sout east(florida). Did not get any compesation of any kind. According to them, it was not under their control so I lost all the money paid for the 2 fairs from Raleigh, NC to Orlando, Fl.

great flight. Pilot was communicative, flight attendants were excellent. Really nice experience except my tv didn’t work.

Overall, the flight was better than the flight I took to go to Florida, which had a bunch of problems. The crew is really nice and the plane was new so it had a small problem when we were on the runway, but the flight itself was great. They even made some time back up, which is always a good thing.

There were multiple delays but JetBlue tried to make the boarding and departure process as quick and efficient as possible. The crew was as detached from reality as could be, meaning: not very friendly and just doing things by the numbers.

I had back trouble prior to my flight and everyone was great about helping me.

40 minute delay before take off after boarding flight. Bright lights throughout night flight due Issues with light panels. In flight Entertainment nonfunctional

Everything was good except for deplaning in NY. Took way too long!!

Jet Blue keeps getting iit wrong. 4 hour mechanical delay followed by terrible boarding experience. This is my third horrific jet blue flight in 2024. I am going to try to avoid this loser in the sky

I paid $380 for my one-way ticket from California to Minnesota. The fair did not include online check-in. I received instructions from their app to check in at a kiosk. At the kiosk, the boarding pass would not print until an actual person came to verify that I had a personal item and not a carry-on item, On the plane, the person next to me was drunk and allowed to continue to order alcohol. United is garbage I’d rather fly spirit.

The plane was dirty and the in seat air wasn't blowing as planes usually do.

Generally good but there wasn’t any staff available when my luggage didn’t appear at baggage claim in Fresno. It took about half an hour to locate a staff member to open up the locked room where it was being kept.

Do not like the feeling of being in the basic economy. Everyone should feel good no matter what.

All flights were on time and boarding was issue free

Terrible! The plane was old and you are required to connect your own device to their Wi-Fi rather than have entertainment options in the back of the seat in front of you. The Wi-Fi went out during the flight and there was only one plug for the devices every two seats. Three out of five surrounding my family did not work. The seats and spaces under them were so small I could not fit my backpack, which I’ve always brought on flights and fit before no problem. The crew were unpleasant and patronizing.

Great! The plane was decently sized and comfortable. The staff was nice and there was great in flight entertainment

Water service would be great. The way they board is terrible. Slow passengers first😂😂 They need to smart up a bit

Our original business class flight was cancelled so we not only downgraded but we were also spread out across the plane not sitting together in separate middle seats. My poor kids were scared and couldn’t see me on the flight and the crew wasn’t sensitive to the situation and what the airlines did to us. Very dissatisfied with United airlines.

Crew were fine, drinks and snacks were as well but we were delayed for around 2 hrs which made our entry into Mexico delayed as well with the influx of arrivals at the same time. Sort of wasted our first day of vacation. We left Pittsburgh at 630am and did not arrive in Mexico until late dinner time.

They gave my seat away although it was a connecting flight with them and the flight was a bit delayed.

Flight was cancelled had to move to another gate late again no internet paid for the month and never can use it waste of money

Not being able to purchase my check in baggage online was a negative.

LATE LATE LATE!!! Plagued by late AA flights on this trip. Such a drag. This one was by far the worst.

WiFi connected but only let you go to the AA website, not even text messaging worked.

Too bad that first class seats do not recline significantly causing discomfort

Flight delayed over an over all day until it cancelled at 1:30am. Would not repeatedly delay that late. Offer hotel rooms and rebook early. Very difficult for families with small children

this is starting to seem like an american airlines standard. delayed flights and fake apologies… getting tired of it

This flight is frequently delayed. The connections seemingly are more frequently delayed. I’ve missed connections as a result twice on the same route to charlotte then Charleston. Final destination arrival has been the next day, twice in a row. No pilots, no crew. Too many excuses. Unfortunately, my days with American are over.

Entertainment was okay not because anything was wrong but it is a short flight so having no wifi is annoying but understandable. Crew was outstanding as usual

I paid for WiFi, but it (WiFi) was very very slow, will never take again! Impossible open Utube 😤😤😤

I had no legroom, although I paid for extra legroom. I could barely put my bag in front of my feet and under the seat. The Wi-Fi was horrible. In fact the flight attendant said that they had to reboot it and see if it was going to work and never did.

The guy with severe body odor sat next to me. For the whole duration of the flight it was a torture. The airline should have better policy on limiting people with bad body odor to board the flight. Passengers should not be the ones to endure bad odor for the whole duration of the flight. The airline should be e the one to ensure decent air quality for ever passenger.

Overall it was a miserable experience... I will never fly spirit for more than a 3 hour flight or overnight.

The boarding attendant was slightly rude when I asked about checking our stroller. Made me feel like I was bothering her.

My wife and I are both handicapped and at boarding they upgraded us to a seat closer to the front rather than all the way towards the back. Much appreciated.

Not much seat room, but that was unexpected. But the seat headrest was very uncomfortable.

First the good, everyone was friendly and efficient. Flight was smooth and plane was very clean and new. Now the bad, seats have almost no padding on your behind. I was in exit row so I had tons of leg room for a 6' 2" bean pole with long legs. Everything was extra - water, soda, snacks everything besides oxygen. Ya get what you pay for, and my flight was cheap as you could ever want it, so no worries.

First the good, everyone was friendly and efficient. Flight was smooth and plane was very clean and new. Now the bad, seats have almost no padding on your behind. I was in exit row so I had tons of leg room for a 6' 2" bean pole with long legs. Everything was extra - water, soda, snacks everything besides oxygen. Ya get what you pay for, and my flight was cheap as you could ever want it, so no worries. They dont really bother you about carry-on size, I brought a descent sized backpack and they didnt even check.

Spirit canceled the flight in March and never notified me!

Six hour delay. Poor customer service. No voucher. Bad communication. Missed important appointments.

Our flight was delayed an hour, then when we got to board our flight finally, we were waiting in our seats for take off for 45 minutes before it was communicated that there was a maintenance issue therefore we waited on the plane for over an hour while that was resolved. We did not get to Phoenix until almost 3 hours after we were originally supposed to. This was the first and last time I will be flying Frontier.

Flight was canceled with little warning. Flight was rebooked through Ontario, California and connecting flight was delayed by over three hours. Frontier is living up to their Greyhound of the skies reputation for sure.

I purchased a carry on bag online…was supposed to cost $72 but after a whole slew of bs charges, the total was over $175.00. Because of these hidden charges, I will not even consider flying Frontier ever again. It’s just not worth the hassle. I’m scratching this company off my list forever.

Flight was OK. Seats were good no cell phone charges on the plane no TVs or entertainment.

There were 3 leg for the trip and each leg was delayed by 90 minutes or more. The boarding process takes forever with people waiting on the jetway even though most folks do not have carry-on. The whole process is poorly managed.

Flight cancelled and was told by a rude gate agent that they don’t accommodate on other airlines. Had to wait 5 hours for a connecting flight that had a 7 hour layover. Would not allow bags to be checked early so we couldn’t go through security .Had to rent a car for the afternoon to store bags and get a meal. Also incurred a hotel fee. No apology or reason given for the cancellation- just rudeness.

They cancelled the flight then did nothing to help us rebook. It was awful - I won’t fly with them again

The process of buying the ticket and navigating all the hidden charges that Frontier throws at you was a terrible experience. The actual airport experience and flying was fine.

The truck that was refueling the plane drove away with the hose still connected to the plane and ripped part of the plane off with it

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5 Ways To Fly On A Private Jet To Hawaii

O ver the years, Hawaii has become one of the hottest destinations globally, especially during winter, for its famed beaches, favorable climate, and tropical landscape. The Aloha state is a bucket list item for many travelers. While Hawaii boasts a large contingent of commercial options, there are ways to travel to see the beautiful Hawaiian Islands via business jet.

Four Seasons Hawaii Private Jet experience

Price: $227,000

One option is to travel to the Aloha state through the Four Seasons Resorts Hawaii Private Jet experience. This differs from the bespoke "air cruise" experience aboard its private Airbus A321XLR . In June 2023, the hotel chain unveiled the Hawaiian Island experience that takes guests to 4 Four Seasons resorts across the Aloha state during the 8-day trip. Four Seasons has partnered with VistaJet to shuttle travelers from the mainland United States to the Hawaiian Islands onboard one of their fleet of Bombardier Global jets. The journey begins at the Big Island of Hawaii at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and ends in Oahu at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu.

In regards to the inter-island flights, guests will fly on a Lanai Air Pilatus PC-12 turboprop operated by Western Aircraft between Lanai (LNY), Maui (OGG), and Oahu (HNL). The Four Seasons Hawaii experience allows guests to travel to and throughout the Aloha state stress-free, bypassing the hassle associated with travel. The main draw of the experience is the seamless experience passengers will have. All they have to do is show up, and everything from itineraries to hotels is handled. The experience designed for two guests will cost $227,000, including the round-trip private jet transfer onboard VistaJet from California.

Schedule a private jet flight

Price: $62,000-$200,000.

The popular option for most people looking to travel to Hawaii is to pick out a scheduled private jet flight to Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) or Kapolei Kalaeloa John Rodger Airport (JRF) on a selected date. Many private jet operators based in California offer frequent flights to select tropical destinations, and considering the popularity of the Hawaiian Islands, it is almost certain that there will be seats available. That being said, the price will fluctuate depending on many factors, including the time of the year and if there are any events in the city. It will also depend on the aircraft type, as a larger aircraft will cost more.

According to data from PrivateFly , a UK-based private jet charter broker, multiple private jets are equipped to fly the 2,560 transpacific journeys between the Los Angeles area and Honolulu. One option is the Gulfstream G200, which can seat eight passengers and is estimated to cost $62,000 to charter one way and $65,000 to charter round trip. Another option is the Bombardier Global Express, which can seat anywhere from thirteen to nineteen passengers and is estimated to cost $115,000 to charter one way and $200,000 to charter round trip.

Flying on an empty leg

Price: $15,500-$25,000.

Akin to commercial jets, sometimes private jets must be repositioned between airports with no passengers to begin their next journey. Empty-leg flights allow travelers to get the entire business aviation experience at a fraction of the cost. These flights are also called ferry flights, dead-heads, and repositioning flights. Empty-leg flights are an opportunity for those who want to save money traveling on a business aircraft to seek repositioning flights to fly to Hawaii actively. That being said, it almost certainly means that you have to be flexible with your travel plans, as these flights might pop up on short notice and may travel from any number of origins.

According to Jet Partners , a company specializing in empty-leg charter flights, empty-leg flights from Hawaii to the mainland United States can offer one-way private plane pricing at up to a 75% discount. Another company, Catch-a-Jet, has created an app to connect travelers with private jet operators offering empty-leg flights. These empty-leg flights only work for short-notice leisure trips. Moreover, regarding these empty-leg flights, VistaJet stresses the importance of flexibility with your travel plans.

Jetcard membership

Price: $950 plus a deposit up to $250,000.

Private jet operators offer membership options for clients, albeit it is more than a subscription to Amazon Prime. XO Jets provides flights to Hawaii on a membership basis. They also have three membership levels: Shared Membership, Membership, and Reserve. The shared member level provides the lowest benefits, but the other two offer many benefits. For instance, the Reserve level has a $950 per hour price cap available on non-peak days. Moreover, Membership and Reserve members can waive non-member fees for up to four people per flight, ensuring a cheaper fare for the group.

Another operator is Wheels Up, which recently received a $500 million investment from Delta Air Lines to put the company on more stable footing . They offer two membership tiers, Connect and Core, and on-demand service at a more expensive price. The Core membership allows members to access private jets in as little as 48 hours, with flights priced dynamically at capped hourly rates. On the other hand, Connect members can join or initiate shared flights to fly privately for less via splitting the cost. Both companies have aircraft capable of making the transpacific journey to the Aloha state.

Charter commercial jet

Price: $31,000 per hour.

Another option to privately travel to the Aloha state is to charter through flag carrier Hawaiian Airlines charters. When chartering a plane through Hawaiian, guests can choose a route outside its route network and customize the date and time that best suits their schedule. Through chartering, passengers will be immersed in a Hawaiian experience, from the hospitality to the beverage and food options.

Smaller aircraft, naturally due to their size, have lower operating costs, which, in turn, allow potential passengers to save on charter fees. Although they have less capacity, chartering a jet from Hawaiian makes sense for larger groups as multiple aircraft types can be chartered depending on the specific need. The airline offers its chartering service onboard its Boeing 717, suitable for 128 guests; Airbus A321neo, ideal for 189 guests; and Airbus A330-200 aircraft, suitable for 276 guests. According to Hawaiian's website , although they can sometimes operate a charter with just 48 hours notice to meet all the needs and for scheduling and planning purposes, especially during the busy winter travel season, charter requests should be sent 11 months in advance.

7 Islands In The US That Feel Like Hawaii, But Are Cheaper

Hawaii is a beautiful island destination with so much to offer but it is expensive. Here are some cheaper alternatives to Hawaii in the US.

• Discover cheaper yet equally stunning island alternatives to Hawaii: Captiva Island, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.
• Enjoy beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere like Hawaii at more affordable prices in these alternative destinations.
• Channel Islands National Park in California offers a tropical paradise and breathtaking views comparable to Hawaii for budget travelers.

The US is brimming with beautiful destinations , from the Grand Canyon, one of the most beautiful national parks in the country, to Colorado Springs, which is famous for the Garden of the Gods, a sacred part with unique rock formations. However, when it comes to island vacations, Hawaii is perceived to be the most breathtaking, and places like Maui attract millions of beach bums.

However, the Aloha State is one of the most expensive states in the US to visit , and on average, one can spend $2,391 for a one-week trip . There are amazing island alternatives to Hawaii that offer plenty of similarities at affordable prices. From Captiva Island in Florida to California's Santa Cruz, here are the islands in the US that feel like Hawaii, but are cheaper.

7 Beach Towns In The U.S. That Look Like Europe

7 captiva island, florida, the average cost of a one-week trip: $2,090.

Located off the Gulf Coast of Florida, Captiva Island boasts more than 250 types of shells, some of the most stunning sunsets, and playful dolphins that travelers can see on tours. A beach vacation on Captiva island feels like Waikiki, America's top beaching destination , which has similar white stretches of sand.

Both Honolulu and Captiva boast spectacular sunsets and a laid-back atmosphere, which make them perfect destinations to relax and unwind. So, instead of traveling to Honolulu, whose travel costs average at $2,306 for a one-week solo trip , head to Captiva Island and enjoy a similar atmosphere for almost $300 less.

• The best beaches on Captiva Island: Alison Hangerup Beach Park, Andy Rosse Lane Park, and Turner Beach Park
• Where to see the sunset on Captiva Island: Mucky Duck

Captiva and its neighbor, Sanibel Island (find out the difference between the two islands ), offer some of the best Florida beaches for hunting seashells .

6 U.S. Virgin Islands

The average cost of a one-week trip: $1,743.

The major difference between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Hawaii is that it's a portion of the Caribbean, while the latter is in the Pacific Ocean. The atmosphere is almost similar, and tourists will find that the U.S. Virgin Islands' beaches are some of the most beautiful (some people believe they are prettier than Hawaii's).

Swimming, snorkeling, and lots of greenery are characteristic of both destinations. Both archipelagos also offer a wonderful culinary scene with unique flavors that will satisfy anyone's platter.

Since both archipelagos share so many similarities, why not head to the U.S. Virgin Islands, which is cheaper, and can only be visited for around $1,743 for one whole week, which is lower than Hawaai's $2,391?

• Best beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands: Magens Bay Beach, Trunk Bay Beach, and Cinnamon Bay Beach
• Common dishes in the U.S. Virgin Islands: Fish, fungi, Johnny cake, cow heel soup, callaloo, and pot fish

Find out how you can easily island-hop through the Virgin Islands .

5 Puerto Rico

The average cost of a one-week trip: $1,524.

Puerto Rico and Hawaii are both popular destinations in the U.S. that offer similar island vibes. Like Hawaii, vacationers will enjoy beach activities, like sunbathing and snorkeling. Both places boast diverse cultures, with Hawaii having Polynesian and Asian influences. Puerto Rico, on the other hand, has African, Spanish, and indigenous Taino cultural influences.

One major difference between them is that Hawaii's natural landscapes are more abundant and diverse than Puerto Rico's. But if you are looking for a similar island atmosphere and you are on a budget, then Puerto Rico is the best option. It only costs $1,524 for a one-week vacation, as opposed to Hawaii, which costs $2,391 for a seven-day getaway.

• The best beaches in Puerto Rico: Flamenco Beach, La Playuela, and Crash Boat

10 US Mountain Towns That Look Like Europe's Alps

4 key largo, florida, the average cost of a one-week trip: $1,483.

The Florida Keys, known for being the diving capital of the world , is one of the most underrated island destinations in the US. The archipelago is made up of three main islands; Key West, Islamorada, and Key Largo.

All the Keys offer a perfect Hawaiian feel, thanks to their sandy beaches and warm waters. However, Key Largo is the most affordable alternative. It is also the best choice for unforgettable diving adventures.

A one-week trip to Key Largo only costs around $1,483, which is much cheaper than the average cost of visiting Hawaiian islands, which is about $2,391. This makes it one of the islands in the US that look like Hawaii but are cheaper.

• The best beaches in Key Largo: Cannon Beach, Far Beach, and Calusa Beach
• Where to dive in Key Largo: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

6 Affordable Islands To Visit In Hawaii

3 south padre island, texas, the average cost of a one-week trip: $1,421.

South Padre Island, one of the sunny US beach destinations for less than $1,000 a week , is one of the cheaper alternatives to Hawaii. The island might lack Hawaii's mountains and waterfalls, but it has the pleasant weather that vacationers can enjoy throughout the year, some of the top-rated beaches in Texas , and incredible wildlife, such as dolphins, plenty of bird species, jaguarundi, and more.

A trip to South Padre Island only costs $1,421 on average for a one-week getaway, and one can visit for as low as $676 for seven days. On the other hand, mid-range tourists will need $2,391.

• The best beaches on South Padre Island: South Padre Island Beach, South Padre Bayside Beach, and Isla Blanca Park.
• Where to see wildlife on South Padre Island: Sea Turtle, Inc ., South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center , and Laguna Madre Nature Trail .

While this island in Texas is a popular spring break destination, there are plenty of reasons to visit South Padre Island in winter , including opportunities for eating delicious food, holiday celebrations, and winter bird migration.

2 Galveston Island, Texas

The average cost of a one-week trip: $1,282.

Galveston Island is within the city limits of the City of Galveston and is similar to Honolulu, which offers many free things to do but it is still expensive to explore the islands. Both destinations boast beaches, museums, historical sites, and a vibrant nightlife scene. They are also both family-friendly and tourists will find amazing things to do with their kids.

Overall, there is more to explore in Honolulu, but since there are plenty of similarities between the two islands, Galveston makes a perfect alternative for budget tourists. It costs $183 per day, on average, to visit Galveston, and $284 per day to vacation in Honolulu .

• The best beaches in Galveston: Stewart Beach, East Beach, and Galveston Island State Park Beach.

Sun, Sand, And Sea: Discover The 14 Most Beautiful Beaches In Galveston For Your Next Getaway

1 channel islands national park, california, the average cost of a one-week trip: $589.

A portion of the Southern California Bight in the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands National Park, which is California's most exotic off-shore destination , has always been compared to Hawaii. Just like The Aloha State, the national park is a tropical paradise with plenty of white beaches that offer multiple fun activities, including swimming, whale watching, kayaking, and more.

Moreover, the lushness of many of the islands' grassy hills makes them perfect dupes for Hawaii. The islands, which include Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel, also come with breathtaking coastal views, and incredible wildlife, and are sometimes referred to as "the Galápagos of North America." Despite the park's location near Los Angeles, it is one of the most underrated national parks in California.

The park's similarities to Hawaii make it a great alternative and a perfect option for budget travelers who can't afford a one-week trip to the Aloha State. The park entry is free, so one needs to only budget for transport, food, and accommodation. A ferry/boat is the most affordable way of getting to the islands. Most of these boats depart from Ventura, taking about one hour 53 minutes, and cost $32 . So, a round-trip costs $64. Primitive camping costs $15 per night at the park , so a seven-day vacation would be $105 for camping.

For food, there are many options for those cruising with Island Parkers . One can order online from Harbor Cové Cafe in Ventura Harbor. A lunch box costs around $20. One can spend around $60 per day on meals when in Channel Islands National Park. So, in total, a one-week trip might cost about $589.

Those who want to live near the park can only do so on Santa Catalina Island, either Avalon or Two Harbors. Here is what living in Avalon is like:

• The best beaches in Channel Islands National Park: Shell Beach, St. Helier Beach, and St. Brelade's Bay Beach.

If you are visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for its beautiful trails, the Channel Islands offers plenty of trails that are suitable for hikers of all levels. Potato Harbor , Cavern Point Loop , and Smugglers Cove are some of the best trails one can explore in the park.