3 Days in Honolulu: Sun, Sea, and Adventure

Experience paradise on a budget in Honolulu, Hawaii.

21 June 2023

For those on a limited budget, a trip to Honolulu, United States, can still be enjoyable. Avoid the pricier tourist traps and opt for more budget-friendly activities such as hiking Diamond Head or lounging on Waikiki Beach. Stay in affordable accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb rentals and sample local street food for a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sun, Sea and Sand

  • Start the day with a beach yoga session at Waikiki Beach
  • Grab some shaved ice from Island Vintage Shave Ice to cool down
  • Visit the Honolulu Zoo and see exotic animals up close
  • Check out the surfers at North Shore's Banzai Pipeline
  • Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch at Rainbow Drive-In
  • Budget Hotel: Aqua Palms Waikiki comfortable rooms at a great price with a location just a short walk from Waikiki Beach.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Start with a Hawaiian cultural tour at Iolani Palace
  • Visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
  • Explore the Bishop Museum and learn about Hawaiian history and culture
  • Take a stroll through Chinatown and check out the street vendors
  • Taste some local brews at Waikiki Brewing Company
  • Budget Eats: Helena's Hawaiian Food a favorite for traditional Hawaiian cuisine at affordable prices.
Day 3

Adventure Time

  • Take a hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views of the city
  • Go snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
  • Learn to surf at Hans Hedemann Surf School
  • Take a sunset catamaran cruise and see the city lights come on
  • Enjoy some live music at Duke's Waikiki
  • Budget Eats: Musubi Cafe Iyasume delicious and filling musubi (rice balls) starting at just $1.50.
  • Honolulu is a paradise that offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for sun, surf, history, or adventure. Stay within your budget while still experiencing all that this city has to offer, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

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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