Save money on your Hawaiian vacation with these amazing Hawaii travel hacks that really work!
This list of Hawaii travel hacks was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Dreaming of a Hawaii family vacation but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone! A lot of travelers spend way more than they need to simply because they don’t know these smart money-saving tricks.
The good news? With a little planning, you can cut costs on flights, hotels, food, and activities—without missing out on the fun!
From scoring nearly free flights to finding budget-friendly luaus, these 10 travel hacks will help your family enjoy an incredible Hawaiian adventure without blowing your budget!
10 Genius Ways to Save Money in Hawaii
Use Stopovers & Companion Fares to Cut Flight Costs
Let’s be real—flights to Hawaii aren’t cheap, especially for a whole family. But did you know there are secret ways to slash those airfare costs?
Some airlines offer free stopovers, which means you can visit two places for the price of one!
For example, Alaska Airlines lets you stop in Seattle and Hawaiian Airlines allows stopovers in Honolulu, so you can add an extra mini-vacation to your trip.
Another game-changing hack is using companion fares. If you have the Alaska Airlines Visa card, you can book a second ticket for just $99 + taxes, which can save you hundreds of dollars.
If you fly Southwest often, try to earn the Southwest Companion Pass—this allows a travel buddy to fly FREE with you for up to two years! Keep an eye out, as Southwest has been tweaking its benefits lately.
Bonus Tip: Before booking, compare multi-city flights instead of direct routes. Sometimes, booking two separate one-way tickets or adding a short layover can be way cheaper than flying nonstop. A little extra research could save you big!
Stay in a Condo Instead of a Hotel (And Save Hundreds!)
Hawaii hotels might look amazing, but they come with a ton of extra fees—resort charges, expensive parking, and overpriced meals can quickly drain your budget.
That’s why renting a condo or vacation home can be a total game-changer for families! Not only do you get more space for your money, but most condos come with a full kitchen, which means you can cook some of your own meals instead of paying $20+ per person at every restaurant.
Another huge perk? Many condos offer free parking, while resorts charge $40 or more per night just to park your car!
Plus, condos usually include laundry facilities, which means you can pack lighter and avoid airline baggage fees.
With the money you save, you can splurge on fun activities—like a luau or snorkeling trip—instead of spending it all on hotel extras. Here are some of my favorite condos in Kihei, Maui.
Where to Find the Best Deals?
- VRBO & Airbnb – Great for family-friendly vacation rentals with kitchens.
- HawaiiGaga.com – A hidden gem for local vacation rental listings.
- Book directly with owners to avoid extra fees from booking platforms.
If you’re traveling with kids, staying in a condo makes life so much easier—you’ll have more space to relax, a fridge stocked with snacks, and more cash left for Hawaiian adventures!
Skip the Rental Car on Oahu & Use Free Transportation
Thinking about renting a car on Oahu? You might want to think again! Rental cars in Hawaii can be crazy expensive, and if you’re staying in Waikiki, parking alone can cost $40+ per night.
The good news? You don’t actually need a car for most of your trip, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki! Oahu has awesome public transportation, plus plenty of free and cheap ways to get around without the hassle of driving.
✔ Take TheBus ($3 per ride or $7.50 for a day pass)—it goes almost everywhere, including major attractions like Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and the North Shore.
✔ Use free hotel shuttles—many hotels offer complimentary rides to places like Ala Moana Shopping Center and Waikiki Beach.
✔ Hop on the Waikiki Trolley—some routes are free, and others have an affordable all-day pass that makes sightseeing a breeze.
✔ If you need a rental, book through Costco Travel or Turo—you can save up to 30% compared to rental car counters at the airport!
When should you rent a car?
Only if you’re doing a full-day road trip to the North Shore or the west side of Oahu. For everything else, skip the rental, avoid traffic, and save your money for shave ice and souvenirs instead!
I always use Discount Hawaii Car Rental, which usually has the best prices for Avis, Thrifty, Budget, etc).
Eat Like a Local & Save on Food Costs
If you eat at Hawaii’s resort restaurants for every meal, your wallet is going to feel it fast—we’re talking $50+ per person per meal!
But guess what? You don’t have to spend a fortune to eat delicious Hawaiian food. Check out my Top 17 Best Cheap Eats on Oahu!
Some of the best meals in Hawaii come from local food trucks, plate lunch spots, and mom-and-pop eateries—and they cost a fraction of what you’d pay at a resort.
✔ Go where the locals eat! Plate lunch spots serve huge portions of Hawaiian classics like loco moco, kalua pork, and garlic shrimp for around $10-$15 per plate.
✔ Shop at local grocery stores like Foodland, Safeway, and Costco to grab poke bowls, sushi, and fresh fruit at way cheaper prices than restaurants.
✔ Take advantage of mini-fridges in hotel rooms—grab milk, cereal, and fresh fruit for quick & easy breakfasts instead of spending $20 per person at a café.
✔ Pack your own snacks and drinks for day trips—a bag of trail mix and some bottled water from Target is a whole lot cheaper than overpriced snacks at touristy spots.
✔ Look for early bird specials and happy hour deals! Many restaurants offer discounts if you dine before 6 PM or grab a happy hour menu.
Best Budget-Friendly Local Eats in Hawaii
- Oahu: Hula Dog, Rainbow Drive-In, Marugame Udon
- Maui: Tin Roof, Da Kitchen, South Maui Fish Co.
- Big Island: Cafe 100, Pine Tree Cafe, Umekes
- Kauai: Puka Dog, Mark’s Place, Hanalei Taro
Eating like a local means you’ll enjoy amazing Hawaiian flavors, save tons of money, and still have room in your budget for fun activities!
Find Free & Cheap Family Activities
The best part about visiting Hawaii? You don’t need to spend a fortune to have an amazing time!
Hawaii’s natural beauty is completely free, and there are tons of kid-friendly activities that won’t cost you a dime. Here are some cheap/free things to do on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island.
Forget pricey tours—your family can swim at stunning beaches, explore lush rainforests, and take in jaw-dropping views without spending a cent.
Spend the day at a free, kid-friendly beach. These spots have gentle waves, soft sand, and plenty of space for little ones to play:
- Oahu: Ko Olina Lagoons (calm waters and great for kids!)
- Maui: Kapalua Bay (perfect for snorkeling!)
- Big Island: Hapuna Beach (wide, sandy beach with plenty of room to run)
- Kauai: Poipu Beach (a kid-friendly beach with occasional monk seal visitors!)
Explore family-friendly hiking trails that are short, scenic, and great for all ages:
- Oahu: Manoa Falls (a jungle hike to a gorgeous waterfall!)
- Maui: Twin Falls (easy walk + waterfalls you can swim in!)
- Big Island: Kīlauea Iki Trail (walk through a volcanic crater!)
- Kauai: Waimea Canyon Lookout (stunning views with no hiking required!)
Visit farmers’ markets for free samples, local fruit, and Hawaiian snacks. You can find tropical treats like fresh pineapple, mango, and homemade banana bread at lower prices than grocery stores.
Many markets also have live music and free cultural performances! Here are cool farmers’ markets on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Check out free cultural events and hula shows! Some hotels and shopping centers offer free nightly hula performances, live music, and even ukulele lessons!
For example, Waikiki’s Kuhio Beach Park has a free hula show three times a week at sunset.
Go on a scenic drive. Roads like Oahu’s North Shore drive, Maui’s Road to Hana, and the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast offer breathtaking views, hidden waterfalls, and plenty of spots to stop and explore—all for free!
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to experience the magic of Hawaii. 🌺 With so many free and low-cost activities, you can fill your itinerary with adventure and still stay on budget!
Travel During Shoulder Season to Save Hundreds
Want to save big on flights and hotels while also avoiding the crazy crowds? The secret is timing your trip right! I’ve got a whole post about it The Best Times to Visit Hawaii with Kids: Weather, Crowds, and Prices.
Most people visit Hawaii during summer (June-August) and winter holidays (December-March), which means sky-high prices and packed beaches.
But if you travel during the shoulder season, you can score huge discounts on flights, accommodations, and even rental cars!
Best budget-friendly months to visit Hawaii
- Mid-April to early June – Perfect spring weather without the summer rush.
- September to early November – Warm ocean temps, fewer tourists, and cheaper everything!
Why is shoulder season the best time to go?
- Flights can be $200–$400 cheaper per ticket compared to peak season!
- Hotels and vacation rentals often drop their rates by 20-40%!
- Attractions, restaurants, and tours aren’t overcrowded, so you get a more relaxed, local experience.
- You’ll have better availability on rental cars (which are crazy expensive during peak times).
Bonus Tip: Many airlines release last-minute award seat deals during off-peak months, meaning you might be able to snag a nearly free flight with miles! If you’re flexible, you can save even more by flying midweek (Tuesdays & Wednesdays) instead of weekends.
So, if you want to spend less and enjoy more of Hawaii without the crowds, plan your trip for spring or fall—it’s a total game-changer!
Score Discounted Luaus & Attractions
Luaus are an amazing way to experience Hawaiian culture, but let’s be real—they’re crazy expensive (often $150+ per person!).
The good news? You don’t have to skip the fun just because you’re on a budget! There are plenty of ways to enjoy traditional Hawaiian entertainment and food without spending a fortune.
Check Costco Travel & Groupon Hawaii for deals
Sometimes, you can find luaus for up to 30% off if you book through these sites. Costco often includes extra perks, like a free drink or upgraded seating.
See free hula shows at Kuhio Beach Park in Waikiki
This authentic sunset performance happens Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and includes Hawaiian music, storytelling, and traditional hula dancing—all for FREE!
Look for “buffet-only” luau tickets
Some luaus allow you to skip the full package (which includes expensive drinks and souvenirs) and just pay for the buffet, which can cut the price in half!
Bundle attractions with a Go City Oahu Pass
If you’re already planning to visit places like Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center, or a snorkeling tour, the Go City Pass can help you save big—but only if you actually plan to do all the included activities.
Book through your hotel or resort
Some hotels offer discounted luaus for guests or partner with local luaus for exclusive rates.
Bonus Tip: If a full luau isn’t in your budget, grab takeout from a local Hawaiian restaurant (like Helena’s Hawaiian Food on Oahu or Da Kitchen on Maui) and enjoy a beach picnic at sunset. You’ll still get to eat delicious Hawaiian food without the hefty price tag!
With a little planning, you can experience Hawaii’s incredible culture and traditions—without spending a fortune!
Save on Snorkeling & Beach Gear
Snorkeling in Hawaii is one of the most incredible experiences, but renting gear every day can get expensive fast!
Most rental shops charge $20–$30 per person per day, which adds up quickly for families.
Instead, buy your own snorkel gear at Target, Walmart, or Costco—you can get a full set for $30 or less, and you’ll have it for the whole trip (and future vacations!).
Check if your vacation rental provides free beach gear! Many condos and Airbnbs include snorkel sets, boogie boards, beach chairs, and umbrellas—just ask before you book!
Buy reef-safe sunscreen before you go—Hawaii bans harmful sunscreens, and buying reef-safe brands on the islands is way more expensive than grabbing a bottle at home.
Skip the pricey guided snorkel tours—some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii are totally free! Just bring your gear and swim right off the beach.
Arrive early to popular snorkeling spots—places like Hanauma Bay (Oahu) and Kapalua Bay (Maui) can get crowded fast, and parking fills up quickly.
Best Cheap/Free Snorkeling Spots in Hawaii
- Oahu: Hanauma Bay ($7.50 entry fee, but amazing for beginners!)
- Maui: Kapalua Bay (calm, clear waters, perfect for kids)
- Big Island: Two Step (one of the best snorkel spots in Hawaii, and totally free!)
- Kauai: Anini Beach (shallow, protected waters with tons of fish!)
Bonus Tip: If you want to see sea turtles, head to Turtle Town (Maui) or Laniakea Beach (Oahu)—just remember to keep your distance and enjoy them from a safe spot!
Snorkeling in Hawaii doesn’t have to cost a fortune—with these simple tricks, your family can explore the underwater world for cheap (or even free)!
Earn Airline Miles on Everyday Purchases
Did you know you can earn free flights to Hawaii just by buying things you already need?
Many travelers think earning airline miles is only for frequent flyers, but the truth is, you can rack up miles fast without ever stepping on a plane!
With the right travel rewards credit card, you can earn points on groceries, gas, dining, and even your monthly bills—and those points can turn into free flights for your next Hawaii vacation.
Get a travel rewards credit card that earns airline miles
Cards like Alaska Airlines Visa, Chase Sapphire Preferred, or Amex Platinum let you earn points on everyday purchases and redeem them for flights.
Use airline shopping portals
Many airlines have online shopping portals (like United MileagePlus Shopping or Hawaiian Airlines eMarket) where you can earn miles for every dollar spent at popular stores like Target, Best Buy, and Walmart.
Sign up for airline dining programs
Restaurants in the HawaiianMiles Dining or Southwest Rapid Rewards Dining programs let you earn miles just by eating out at participating restaurants—no extra work needed!
Stack your rewards
Use a travel credit card, an airline shopping portal, AND a promo code for online purchases to triple dip on points and earn even faster.
Watch for limited-time mileage bonuses
Some credit cards offer extra miles for hitting spending goals, so if you have a big purchase coming up (like booking a hotel), put it on your travel rewards card and earn even more miles!
Bonus Tip: Some airlines allow family members to pool miles, meaning you can combine points from different accounts and reach a free flight even faster!
Earning airline miles is one of the easiest ways to save on Hawaii travel—just set it and forget it, and before you know it, you’ll have enough miles for a nearly free flight to paradise!
Book Interisland Flights Like a Pro
Planning to visit more than one Hawaiian island on your trip?
Hopping between islands is easy, but it can get expensive if you don’t book smart! The good news? If you time it right, you can score interisland flights for as low as $39—or even fly for free using travel rewards!
Hawaiian Airlines & Southwest offer the cheapest interisland fares
Hawaiian Airlines often has discounted web specials, while Southwest offers $39 one-way flights when booking in advance.
Book morning flights for the best deals
Early flights tend to be cheaper and have fewer delays, plus you’ll have more time to explore once you land!
Use a travel rewards credit card to cover interisland flights
Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, or Southwest Rapid Rewards let you redeem points for flights between islands, sometimes for just 2,000–4,500 points per ticket!
Fly Southwest if you have a Companion Pass
If you’ve earned the Southwest Companion Pass, your travel buddy flies for free, even on interisland routes!
Bonus Tip: If you have checked luggage, Hawaiian Airlines is usually the better choice because Southwest’s two free bags policy is phasing out! Always check airline baggage policies before booking to avoid surprise fees.
With a little planning, you can hop from island to island without spending a fortune—so go ahead and explore more of Hawaii’s magic!
FAQ: Hawaii Budget Travel Tips
Q: What’s the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit?
A: Oahu has the most competition, leading to cheaper flights, budget-friendly hotels, and public transport.
Q: Is it worth getting a Costco membership for a Hawaii trip?
A: Yes! Costco offers discounted rental cars, hotel packages, and cheap food/snacks.
Q: How far in advance should I book a Hawaii trip?
A: 6-12 months in advance for flights & hotels, but check last-minute deals, too!
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Hawaii Without Overspending!
These 10 Hawaii travel hacks will help your family experience paradise on a budget! A little planning goes a long way, ensuring you save money while making unforgettable memories.
👉 Ready to start planning? Download my FREE Hawaii Family Budget Planner!
Looking for more Hawaii budget posts? Check out 7 Cheap Places to Stay in Maui for Budget-Friendly Travel, Discover Kauai on a Budget: Top 10 Things to Do Under $10, Oahu on a Budget: Top 10 Cheap Things to do on Oahu for $10 or Under!, and Hawaii on a Budget: Top 23 Free Things to Do on Oahu!
