Honolulu on a budget: Sun, Surf, and Savings

Discover paradise on a budget in Honolulu, United States.

21 June 2023

With a limited budget, a trip to Honolulu, United States can still be enjoyable. Opt for budget accommodations outside of the Waikiki area, such as in the Kaimuki or Manoa neighborhoods, and utilize public transportation to get around the city. Take advantage of free activities like hiking Diamond Head or exploring the local beaches, but splurge on a few Hawaiian meals to fully experience the island culture.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sun, Sand, and Surfin'

  • Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki
  • Start the day with a breakfast burrito from Lulu's Waikiki
  • Rent a surfboard from Hawaiian Oceans Surf School and catch some waves at Waikiki Beach
  • Grab lunch at Rainbow Drive-In for their famous plate lunch
  • Take a stroll around the Honolulu Zoo
  • Enjoy the sunset while sipping on a Mai Tai from Duke's Waikiki
Day 2

History and Hiking

  • Begin the day by hiking up to the top of Diamond Head State Monument
  • Have brunch at Eggs 'n Things for their fluffy pancakes
  • Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
  • Take a tour of Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States
  • Wander around Chinatown and stop at Little Village Noodle House for some dumplings
  • End the evening by catching a show at the Hawaii Theatre Center
  • Honolulu may have a reputation for being expensive, but with these affordable recommendations, you can have a great time without breaking the bank. Aloha!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Honolulu, United States by plane is to fly to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) from major airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Car

The best way to get to Honolulu is by renting a car on arrival at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Public transport is not widely available and a car is the most convenient way to access the main tourist areas.

Train

There are no train services that connect to Honolulu as it is an island and does not have a railway system.

Boat

The best way to get to Honolulu by boat is to take a cruise from the mainland United States or other international ports. Several major cruise liners, such as Royal Caribbean International, offer services to Honolulu Port.

Bus

There is no bus service that connects to Honolulu as it is an island and does not have any road connections.

Destination

Honolulu

As soon as you step off the plane, the sweet scent of plumeria and visions of surfers catching waves will make you forget that you just spent 10 hours in economy. Welcome to paradise...with a high chance of sunburn.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Discover Honolulu: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

To make the most of your trip to Honolulu on a limited budget, focus on free activities like hiking Diamond Head and exploring the beaches of Waikiki. Renting a car can be expensive, so consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to get around. Instead of dining at pricey restaurants, look for local food trucks and markets for delicious and affordable eats.