If you love planning a vacation, you’ll enjoy planning your trip to the Hawaiian islands! With its rich culture and beautiful white sand beaches, there are so many great things to do and see in this destination it can be hard to narrow down to exactly what you want to do.
One major consideration most people have when planning a trip is their budget. This can be a major factor in deciding on a destination and what to do at that destination. So how much do trips to Hawaii cost?
While it’s difficult to give a specific answer (it depends on so many different factors, from time of year to what you plan to do while you’re there), we will take a closer look at how much your holiday might cost based on different criteria.
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Time of Year
First, consider the time of year you choose to travel. Hawaii is a popular destination year-round, but peak travel seasons are typically from December to March when the weather is warm and dry.
As you might expect, airfare and hotel prices will usually be higher during this time. If you’re looking for a holiday that’s more friendly on your pocket, consider traveling during the shoulder season, which is from April to May or September to November. The weather is still lovely, and prices are generally lower.
High Season vs. Low Season
Hawaii’s high season is typically from mid-December to mid-April, when many people want to escape the cold winter weather in other parts of the world. During this time, expect high prices for flights and accommodation, and popular tourist attractions can be busy and crowded.
Low season is from mid-April to mid-December when the weather is still warm and pleasant, but there are fewer crowds, and prices are often lower. If you’re looking for a cheaper time to visit, consider making your trip during the low season.
Summer Months vs. Winter Months
The summer months in Hawaii are from June to August, and the winter months are from December to February. During the summer, the weather is warm and sunny, with occasional rain showers that are usually short and won’t affect your holiday experience.
Summer is a popular time for families to visit as kids are out of school, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to get involved in.
In the winter, the weather can be a bit cooler and rainier (although it never really gets cold). With an average high of 78°F a low of 62°F, it’s still a great time to visit Hawaii.
Winter is the best time of year for surfers, as the waves are bigger and more consistent. It’s also a great time to see humpback whales, which migrate to Hawaii from Alaska during winter.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Hawaii comes down to your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there. If you want to catch the sun and heat, then the summer months are your best option (although they will be more expensive). As it’s the high season, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities available, and it’s the best time of year to see the sea turtles as the waters are calmer.
If budget is a consideration and you’re not looking to go crazy with spending on your holidays, then the low season is your best bet. The weather won’t be cold, but you probably will see some rain, and it won’t be typical sunbathing. It’s the best time for a quieter holiday if you don’t enjoy the crowds and want a more relaxing, laid-back break.
Check out our latest blog post: 15+ Tips to Have a Hawaii Honeymoon on a Budget
Getting There
Depending on where you’re traveling from, getting there (and getting around) can be one of the most significant expenses for your holiday. Here are some of the things to take into account:
Flights
There is no shortage of airlines flying to Hawaii – Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines are just a few.
Depending on your location, direct flights may be available, or you may need to take domestic flights to one of the West Coast cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco before catching a flight to Hawaii.
Flight costs vary a lot depending on the time of year, airline, and whether or not it’s a non-stop flight. If you’re willing to travel during the low season, you’ll find cheaper flights than you would during the peak season. On average, expect to pay around $500-$800 for a round-trip ticket from the West Coast to Hawaii. From the East Coast or Midwest, expect to pay $800+ per person.
Getting Around Hawaii
Rental Cars
There are many ways to get around Hawaii, but many people choose to rent a car as this often ends up being the most cost-effective if you want to do a lot of traveling around and sightseeing. The average price can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the length of time you need it (and whether or not you return the car in the same condition that you rented it!)
On average, expect to pay around $40-$60 daily for a rental car. Discount Hawaii Car Rental is one particular company where you can get great deals on rental cars – they are a broker that works with the top car rental companies.
Remember that once you have a car, you must also pay parking fees! These can be relatively expensive at the top tourist destinations around the islands, so make sure to look up the parking costs before you go to know what to expect.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is available on some islands, but it may not be the most convenient option for getting around. On Oahu, the bus system is a popular choice and the cheapest way to travel used by locals and tourists alike.
A one-way fare costs about $3, but day passes are available for unlimited rides for $7.50. Other options are taxis and ride-sharing apps such as Lyft and Uber, but these can be expensive if you intend to travel around a lot.
Transportation to and around Hawaii can quickly add to your family vacation expenses!
Accommodations
Hotel costs (or other accommodations) will likely be your largest expense when planning a trip to Hawaii. There are several options, and some are more expensive than others. Here are a few of the favorite options for tourists to Hawaii:
Hotels
Hawaii has a wide range of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The average cost for a hotel room in Hawaii is around $250 per night, but that depends on what part of Hawaii you’re staying in, the size of the room (a family room will cost significantly more than a double), and if you are staying right on the beach.
Depending on the Hawaii hotel you’re staying in, they may also charge resort fees, ranging from $20 to $50 per night.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are a popular option for those looking for more space and privacy and are a great way to spend a quiet holiday without the usual noise and crowds at a hotel. You can choose from a private room in someone’s home or an entire house or condo.
The average cost for a vacation rental in Hawaii is around $200 per night, but the rental prices can vary from $100 to about $700 per night, depending on the location and the type of property you’re staying in.
Luxury Resorts
If you’re looking for a more luxurious and up-market experience, Hawaii has plenty of options. Luxury hotels in the top resorts offer high-end amenities such as spas, fine dining, and private beaches.
The average cost for a luxury resort in Hawaii is around $500 per night, but prices can vary depending on the location and time of year.
Activities
When you plan a trip to Hawaii, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of activities to keep you busy, and there are LOTS to do and see at this fantastic destination. Here are some of the top things to do in Hawaii:
National Parks
National parks such as f on the Big Island and Maui’s Haleakala National Park offer stunning natural beauty and unique experiences.
At Haleakala, you can watch the sunrise from the volcano’s summit, go on a hike, or stargaze at night. You can see active volcanoes, explore lava tubes, and take scenic drives at Hawaii Volcanoes.
Both have ticket prices of $30 for a private vehicle valid for three days or $15 per pedestrian or bicycle. These are great places to take the family as kids age 15 and under go free. There are fee-free days on certain holidays during the year where fees are waived, but expect those days to be extra busy!
State Parks
In addition to national parks, Hawaii has many state parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities. Some popular options include Waimea Canyon State Park on Kauai, which offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks, and Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island, which features a 400-foot waterfall and lush rainforest.
Pearl Harbor
If you’re interested in history, you can only afford to take advantage of a visit to the iconic Pearl Harbor. You can tour the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic sites like the Battleship Missouri and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Museums are the best place to go if you have little extra spending money and enjoy history, and this is one of the top 3 destinations for tourists to visit in Hawaii; plus, it’s free!
Purchase your tickets for Pearl Harbor.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Head to the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu for a taste of Hawaiian culture. This attraction offers a variety of shows and exhibits that showcase the music, dance, and traditions of Hawaii and other Pacific Island cultures, so you want to spend half a day here.
Prices start at about $80 for an adult (there are various packages) and up to approximately $ 270 per person for the Super Ambassador Luau Package.
Helicopter Tours
To see Hawaii from a different perspective, a helicopter tour is a fantastic way to see the breathtaking views of the islands’ natural beauty, including waterfalls, volcanoes, and beaches.
Many tour companies offer different packages and options, so you can find one that fits your budget and interests. They’re not cheap, though – expect to spend approximately $250 per person if you want to go on a helicopter.
Book your Helicopter Tour now!
Kualoa Ranch
If you’re a fan of movies and TV shows, you will want to take advantage of a visit to Kualoa Ranch on Oahu. This working cattle ranch has been the location for many famous productions, including Jurassic Park and Lost.
You can take a tour of the ranch, go horseback riding, or even try your hand at zip lining.
Get your tickets now: Kualoa Ranch – Hollywood Movie Site Tours
Food and Drink
Regarding food and drink, Hawaii has plenty of options catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some dining options you can explore during your trip to Hawaii.
Restaurant Dining
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, Hawaii has no shortage of highly-rated restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines. From seafood to sushi, Italian to Hawaiian, you can find a restaurant that suits your taste buds.
The average meal cost at a mid-range restaurant in Hawaii is about $20 to $30 per person. However, if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, be prepared to pay upwards of $50 per person.
Food Trucks
If you’re on a budget and need to keep food costs down, food trucks are a superb lower-price option for a quick and affordable meal. Hawaii has lots of well-known food trucks that offer delicious local cuisine at reasonable prices, and many of them also offer outdoor seating.
A meal at a food truck typically ranges from $5 to $15 per person, depending on what you order.
Grocery Stores
If you’re looking to save money on food during your trip to Hawaii, you could cook your meals if you stay in private accommodation. Hawaii has several grocery stores where you can buy fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients to prepare meals. Some popular grocery stores in Hawaii include Safeway, Foodland, and Costco. The average cost of groceries in Hawaii is about $50 to $70 per week per person, depending on what you like to eat.
Average Cost of a Week in Hawaii
So, we’ve looked at a few of the main costs you’ll incur on a trip to Hawaii, so what can you expect to pay on a one-week trip?
A 7-day trip to Hawaii will cost you around $2,000 to $3,000 per person. This includes airfare, accommodations, food, and activities. However, the overall costs can vary quite a bit depending on the time of year you go, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you participate in.
Remember, Maui is the most expensive island to visit (in fact, it could add an extra $1000+ per person to your total cost). Oahu was the cheapest Hawaii island in 2022, and this looks to continue for 2023 and beyond.
Good News for Budget Travelers
If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Hawaii without breaking the bank. The best time to travel is during the off-peak season, when you’ll find the best prices, both for plane tickets and accommodation costs. If you want the cheapest airfare, book well in advance.
When you’re there, looking for free or budget-friendly options, such as hiking, visiting beaches, or exploring local parks, is a good idea. You can also save money on food by eating at local markets or food trucks instead of restaurants.
Your choices will dictate how much money you spend, but with a bit of research, you can work out a cost estimate before you go and keep your spending to a minimum.
How much do Trips to Hawaii Cost
Planning a trip to Hawaii can be a task as it involves lots of research, but it is worth it. Hiring a Travel Agent is a great step to get the burden of planning off of your family.
The cost of your Hawaii vacation will depend on various factors, including the time of year, length of stay, and activities planned. Set your budget and stick to it – it’s possible to visit Hawaii on various budgets, but the more you can afford to spend, the easier your planning will be.
Overall, a trip to Hawaii can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on your preferences and budget. You’ve taken the first step by reading this article; now it’s time to reach out to Sunset Chasers Travel Agency to book your dream vacation.
