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Honolulu: A Budget-Friendly Adventure Guide

Experience the paradise on a budget with a trip to Honolulu.

21 June 2023

Visiting Honolulu on a limited budget is possible with a bit of planning. Start by seeking cheap accommodations in downtown Honolulu or Waikiki, which will be close to attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head. Budget-friendly activities include hiking trails, visiting public parks, and taking advantage of happy hour specials at local bars and restaurants.

Travel plan

• Relax on the iconic Waikiki Beach, a beautiful white sand beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Rent a beach chair and umbrella to enjoy the day in comfort.
• Grab a shave ice from a nearby vendor for a refreshing treat.
• Walk along the beachfront promenade to take in the stunning views of Diamond Head crater.
• Catch a free hula performance at Kuhio Beach hula mound in the evening.
• Hotel recommendation: Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki, located just a block away from the beach and offering affordable prices for budget travelers.

• Take a short hike to Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall nestled in a lush rainforest.
• Stop for lunch at the Rainbow Drive-In for their famous plate lunch, a local favorite.
• Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art and explore their diverse collection of Asian, Pacific, and Western art.
• Stroll through the beautiful Foster Botanical Garden, home to rare plants and exotic flowers.
• Catch a sunset at Magic Island, a serene park with stunning views of the ocean.

• Visit the iconic Iolani Palace, the former home of Hawaiian royalty, and learn about Hawaii's history.
• Check out the exhibits at the Bishop Museum, dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Hawaii and the Pacific.
• Grab lunch at the popular food truck hub, Makers & Tasters, and sample a variety of local cuisine.
• Explore the vibrant Chinatown district and visit the Maunakea Marketplace for unique souvenirs and snacks.
• End the day at the Hawaii Theatre Center, a beautifully restored historic theater that hosts live performances.

• Hike up to the Makapuu Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
• Take a snorkeling tour at Hanauma Bay and experience the underwater world of Hawaii's marine life.
• Have lunch at the Koko Head Café, serving up delicious brunch dishes with a Hawaiian twist.
• Rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak and explore the calm waters of Kaneohe Bay.
• Catch a movie at the Ward Village Courtyard Cinema, an outdoor movie theater featuring popular films and classic flicks.

• Drive up to the North Shore and visit the famous surf town of Haleiwa, filled with local shops and galleries.
• Visit the Dole Pineapple Plantation and take a tour, featuring pineapple tastings and a glimpse at Hawaiian agriculture history.
• Explore the stunning Waimea Valley, a lush botanical garden featuring a variety of plants and a waterfall.
• Grab a shrimp plate lunch from one of the many food trucks on the North Shore, a local favorite.
• End the day watching a beautiful sunset at Sunset Beach, a world-famous surf spot.