A holiday to Hawaii is sure to be full of sun-soaked moments by the beach, leisurely walks, and lively events with a tasty cocktail in hand. But how do you do this without burning a hole in your pocket? It’s easier than you’d think! With some smart planning and research, you can enjoy the best that Hawaii has to offer without breaking the bank!
From renting a moped to explore all the islands conveniently to checking out local free events and attractions, this guide explores how you can enjoy Honolulu without stressing over the budget. Let’s go!
Honolulu on a Budget
Here are some travel tips that can help you cut costs and save a ton of money.
Opt for Hostels
Staying in Honolulu doesn’t mean only staying in pricey five-star hotels. Opting for a hostel during your visit can be one of the most budget-friendly decisions you make. Not only is it affordable, but these hostels usually have a laid-back, warm vibe that makes it easier to connect with other travelers and make memories on the go.
The best part is that most of these hostels are located close to the beach, so you still get to be a part of all the action. Plus, hostels come with many perks, like free Wi-Fi, tours, and surf lessons. You get to soak up the island’s local culture while making friends from around the world!
Get The Hawaii Happy Hours App
No trip to Hawaii is complete without making the most of the happy hour scene! Getting this app was a game-changer for me because it highlighted all the happy hour deals around Honolulu, from beachfront bars to cozy restaurants hidden away in the city.
You never know what you’ll find in the app, whether it’s half-priced cocktails at a bar near you or half-off food deals at famous restaurants. This app is regularly updated, so you don’t have to worry about outdated deals or missing out on new ones.
You can also filter it by location and what activity you’re in the mood for.
Rent A Moped
I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: You’re missing out on experiencing prime Hawaiian island vibes if you aren’t cruising through the coastlines in a moped with the ocean’s breeze in your hair. Whether you’re on a budget or not, renting a moped is one of the best ways to soak in Hawaii’s beauty while banking on convenience!
Being on a moped easily lets you stop when you want at hidden beaches, scenic overlooks, and eateries that you wouldn’t have access to if you were in a car. It also helps you save on gas and the time you spend looking for parking.
So, if you want that laid-back Hawaiian vibe and want to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank, renting a moped is the way to go!
Best Honolulu Spots on a Budget for Your Hawaiian Vacation
Here are some great, hidden spots to help you explore Honolulu on a budget.
Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Wayside Park – Free Views You Won’t Forget
Looking for breathtaking views of Honolulu without spending anything? Head to Pu’u’ Ualaka’a State Wayside Park.
It’s a low-key, hidden gem that isn’t very popular with tourists, which is exactly why it should be on your itinerary! This spot offers a panoramic view of Diamond Head, the city, and the ocean—all in one!
Manoa Falls Hike
By now, you know how important it is to pack activewear and a good pair of sneakers or walking shoes to experience the best of Hawaii on foot.
One of the must-see places is Manoa Falls. Just a short drive from downtown Honolulu, this trail is not too long, around 1 km one-way, making it the perfect opportunity to get a small workout in while enjoying all that Manoa Falls has to offer.
Since the trail winds through a rainforest, going on this trail feels like you have been transported to another world!
Halona Beach Cove
Halona Beach Cove, another secret scenic spot, is tucked away on an off-beaten path and offers a quiet escape from the usual tourist crowds. Famous as the filming location for the movie, ‘From Here to Eternity’, this spot guarantees stunning cove views, rocky coastline and crystal-clear waters.
Whether you want to catch the sunrise or just take in the beauty, Halona Beach Cove is one of the best budget-friendly options for your Honolulu trip.
Aloha Tower Marketplace
This free spot, situated by the iconic Aloha Towers, offers stunning views and local island flavors without draining your pocket. You can soak in beautiful views of the harbor while grabbing tasty island bites at a budget-friendly price or stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, and catch free live music and cultural events happening every now and then.
Pro tip: Head up to the top of Aloha Towers to catch that lovely panoramic view of Honolulu for free!
Hanauma Bay
If you want to experience unforgettable underwater views of the pristine waters of Hanauma bay, you can do so without spending a fortune. For a small entry fee, you can explore the famous coral reefs and a diverse variety of fish.
You don’t need to be an expert swimmer to enjoy this because the waters here are calm and shallow. Since Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area, it is ideal for families and beginners. If you want to save on rental costs, bring your own snorkel gear and go early to find parking spots.
Public Friday Night Fireworks
If you’re in Honolulu on a Friday night, don’t miss the free, public Friday night fireworks! This 10-minute show starts at 7:45 pm and lights up the sky over the beach. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend and make some great memories!
Great Places to Watch the Fireworks
- Waikiki Beach: Grab a spot on the beach where thousands of locals and visitors gather to soak up the beauty of the atmosphere.
- Barefoot Beach Cafe: For a chill vibe, head to this laid-back cafe that has awesome views of the fireworks, the Honolulu skyline, and Diamond Head.
- Mount Tantalus: If you’re up for an adventure, take a drive up this extinct volcano. The views of the city and ocean from here are stunning. Trust me, watching the fireworks from above while feeling the cool breeze and taking in the beauty of Honolulu is an unmatched feeling.
Enjoy The Hawaiian Dances
For a memorable evening that won’t cost you a penny, head over to Kuhio Beach Park. Located in the eastern corner of Waikiki Beach, this spot lets you experience the magic of hula dances for free! The show starts at 6:30 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, so grab a seat and get ready for an enchanting evening that is going to leave you feeling in awe of this island’s rich culture!
Enjoy the authentic Hawaiian music while the dancers showcase the ancient Hawaiian art of Hula and a celebration of Polynesian heritage that you won’t want to miss!
Explore Honolulu with Honolulu Moped Rentals!
Now that you know how to explore Honolulu on a budget, here’s a convenient way to do so: on a moped! Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also lets you zip through Honolulu’s traffic, which can be pretty exhausting at times!
You can skip the rental car and parking fee while catching all the city’s must-see spots! Explore everything at your own pace, whether you want to stop for a quick dip in the ocean, grab a snack from food trucks, or soak in stunning landscapes wherever you wish.
At Honolulu Moped Rentals, our modern, well-maintained mopeds are not just stylish but also fuel-efficient and eco-friendly, helping you keep your carbon footprint low as a tourist! Whether you want a quick trip around the island or a leisurely day of sightseeing, we offer flexible rental options that fit smoothly into your schedule.
So hop on and contact us today to make unforgettable memories in Honolulu!
FAQs
1. What are the best budget-friendly accommodations in Honolulu?
If you’re looking to save on your stay, hostels are the way to go! They’re cheap and close to the beach. Plus, you’ll meet other travelers and make memories for life. There are also budget hotels and vacation rentals that can be a good fit too!
2. Are there free things to do in Honolulu?
There are many free activities to do, like hiking to Manoa Falls, visiting Pu’u’ Ualaka’a State Wayside Park for views, or watching the public Friday night fireworks. You can also check out the hula dance performances at Kuhio Beach Park, it’s a great way to experience Hawaiian culture!
3. How can I find the best dining deals?
Download the Hawaii Happy Hours app! It’s a game-changer for discovering happy hour deals around Honolulu. From beachfront bars to local eateries, you can snag some delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices.
4. Is renting a moped worth it?
Definitely! Renting a moped is one of the best ways to explore the island while keeping your costs down. It allows you to navigate the city easily, find parking quickly, and stop at those hidden gems along the coast.
5. When is the best time to visit Honolulu on a budget?
Visiting during the shoulder season (spring and fall) will get you great deals on flights and lodging. Plus, you’ll avoid the peak tourist crowds and have a more chill experience.
6. What to pack for a budget trip to Honolulu?
Activewear for hiking trails, swimwear for impromptu beach trips and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated! Don’t forget to pack snacks so you can save on meals while you’re out exploring.