A trip to Hawaii is always worth it – but it won’t come cheap, especially for families.
With its raw natural beauty and rich culture, the Hawaiian Islands often rank among the most expensive destinations in the nation.
According to the Hawaii Vacation Guide, a 10-day trip to Hawaii in mid-June was estimated to run a family of four $11,829 – around 17% more than a similar trip in 2019. Just the average nightly rate for a double room at a hotel is $659, according to KAYAK data. A family that needs more than one room may end up paying double that. (For what it’s worth, the Aloha State is notoriously expensive for everyone, with the cost of living being the highest in the nation.)
As Americans tighten their budgets amid tariffs and inflation, some may be wondering how they can still pull off their dream trip to the islands without breaking the bank.
Debbie Misajon, founder of Hawaii-based luxury travel company The Coconut Traveler, said she’s seen a recent shift in travelers to the islands being more price-conscious. “They want to know where (their money is) going or how it’s being spent,” the travel expert who grew up in Hawaii told USA TODAY. “Everything’s changed since then in terms of people watching their dollars and cents.”
While a truly cheap Hawaii vacation is tough to come by, people who are flexible and intentional with their travel plans can score better deals and get the most value out of what they do spend. Here’s how travelers can save on their Hawaiian vacations, according to experts.
Yes, Hawaii has a brief shoulder season in early fall when travelers can find slightly cheaper prices for airfare and accommodations.
In September, the daily average rates for vacation rentals are 30% lower than the peak holiday travel season in December, according to Vrbo data. “Flights prices to Hawaii tend to drop in September and October – and if you’re traveling with your partner or a few friends – an extended weekend in paradise is both doable and affordable,” said Vrbo travel expert Melanie Fish in a statement.
Food tends to be the most shocking expense for families with numerous mouths to feed, according to Misajon. Even Hawaii’s fast food is the most expensive in the nation, so going out to eat every day can add up fast. Families can save some money on food by finding accommodations with a kitchen to cook some of their own meals or eateries that cater more to locals outside of tourist hotspots.
Not every dollar spent on a Hawaii trip is equal. There’s nothing worse than booking an overpriced tour or restaurant only to have a lackluster experience, so here’s how travelers can make their dollars go further.
