Ah, Waikiki! The sun-soaked beaches, the soothing waves, and the lively Hawaiian culture draw visitors from every corner of the world. But let’s be honest—paradise doesn’t always come cheap.
Since Waikiki is a hotspot for tourists, it’s no surprise that it can get pretty pricey. But don’t worry budget-conscious travelers—we’ve got your back!
With a little smart planning and a few insider tips, you can experience the best of Waikiki without emptying your wallet. Get ready for the ultimate guide to enjoying Waikiki on a budget without missing out on the fun!
1. Timing is Everything
If you’re planning for a Hawaiian vacation on a budget one thing you need to consider is when you are planning to visit the island. Especially if you’re on a budget, I highly suggest you not travel to Waikiki during the peak season from mid-December to March.
I am saying this because the hotels could be packed and you might have to pay extra for the stays that you want to book. But even before reaching Waikiki, you’ll have to spend the double amount on your flight ticket.
If you really want to save some serious cash, try visiting during the shoulder seasons—late winter or early fall or between May to October. Prices for flights and accommodations drop significantly when there are fewer tourists around. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful beaches without the crowds!
There’s just one drawback I feel and that’s the sun! The sun will be at its peak so, don’t forget to carry your sun protection when visiting Waikiki during the mentioned months. Rest, Waikiki is beauty beautiful and you’ll enjoy the view even though you’re getting tanned.
2. Finding Affordable Accommodations
Now that you’ve planned to visit Waikiki, it’s time to find some accommodations at affordable prices. You can find many accommodations at Waikiki but finding the one on a budget can be quite tricky.
Hostel & Shared Accommodation
There are some accommodation options you can try out if you’re up for mingling with other travelers. You can find hostels and shared accommodations that’ll be in your budget and the best part is that you can make new connections.
I personally liked the Seaside Hawaiian Hostel which has all the amenities you would want. From the kitchen to clean rooms, this was everything you could ask for.
You can try booking these accommodations using platforms like Airbnb or Google Travel. This can drastically reduce your lodging expenses.
Budget Hotels
Since you’re traveling cheaply, we won’t recommend any high-end resorts, but you can definitely check out some budget hotels. While luxury resorts may cost over $400 per night, there are plenty of affordable alternatives.
Many 2- or 3-star hotels can be booked for under $150 per night if reserved in advance. For instance, the Vive Hotel Waikiki provides modern accommodations within walking distance of the beach at budget-friendly rates.
Private Rooms
Thinking a private room could be a bit heavy on your pocket? Don’t worry if you’re in luck, you could find one of the best deals at the most affordable rate.
Try booking a private room at the Waikiki Grand. Now, there’s a trick to find the best deals. Go to their website and look for cheap rooms. If it’s your day, you may get a free upgrade and get a great view of the Diamond Head from your room.
Even if you don’t get a free upgrade, don’t worry because the rooms are pretty tidy and need all the basic amenities to make your stay comfortable.
3. Getting Around Without Spending a Fortune
If you don’t have enough cash on you and are confused about whether to visit the places around you or not, wouldn’t that be a waste for you to visit Waikiki in the first place? Well, yes!
Even if you don’t have much, you must have something to spend and that’s actually enough for you to explore Waikiki. There are several budget-friendly transportation options you can hop on and enjoy exploring the island.
TheBus
No need to spend a fortune on a rental car (not to mention the headache of almost no free parking at hotels), cabs, or Uber! Thankfully, Oahu’s public transit system, The Bus, is both reliable and budget-friendly. For as little as $4, depending on your starting point and number of stops, you can explore the entire island without breaking the bank.
Each trip costs just $2, and that includes one free transfer. All you need to do is grab a transfer ticket from the driver and present it to the next one—it’s valid for two hours from the time it’s issued.
The Bus fleet is clean, air-conditioned, punctual, and staffed with friendly drivers. Plus, the main hub at Ala Moana Shopping Center, an international marketplace offers a great opportunity to squeeze in some shopping or window browsing between rides.
If you’re headed somewhere specific in Waikiki or elsewhere on Oahu, be sure to check The Bus website in advance for routes and schedules—it’s super helpful!
Before you hop on one of these buses, make sure:
- To have plenty of $1 bills or coins handy, as drivers don’t provide change.
- Ask for a transfer ticket so you can make the most of your $2 fare!
Biki Bikes
Are you a fitness freak or environment-conscious? We have the best transportation option for you. Biki Bikes are the best option for those who enjoy cycling. Biki Bike rentals are a great option, where you can get unlimited monthly passes for just $15. With this pass you can enjoy as many 30-minute rides as you’d like, making it an affordable and active way to explore Waikiki.
Details:
Cost: $4.50 for a one-way ride (up to 30 minutes), or $12 for 24 hours of unlimited rides (max. 30 minutes per ride).
Locations: Over 130 convenient pickup and drop-off stations throughout Honolulu.
Whether you’re zipping through town to your next destination or taking a leisurely ride along the beach, Biki bikes offer an affordable, eco-friendly way to experience the island.
Scooter Rental
Other great options are scooter rentals. Waikiki is a tropical paradise and you wouldn’t want to miss any of the spots. For this, scooters are great!
You can find many scooter rental companies that will let you with some of the best two-wheelers so you can explore around the island easily. The rates are from as low as $25 for a day to $200 for a week.
There’s no physical workout. Just accelerate that throttle and zip around the streets of Waikiki wherever and whenever you want.
Waikiki Trolley
The Waikiki Trolley is a convenient way to tour through the sights and attractions of Honolulu and Waikiki at reasonable prices. The trolley travels along various routes that cover popular destinations from beaches, shopping centers, and historic sites, to dining spots.
Various kinds of passes are available, including single rides and multi-day passes. This is an efficient option for hopping on and off at different stops around the city.
On Foot
If you still want something less cheap than the rest of the other options then the best is to explore around on your foot. Waikiki’s shopping and dining scene is incredibly walkable, making it easy to explore on foot from most hotels—no need for extra transportation if you’re reasonably fit.
Just be sure to carry a basic map or keep a navigation app handy. It’s relatively simple to orient yourself using key landmarks like the beach, Diamond Head, or the Ala Wai Canal.
Keep in mind, though, that Waikiki can get pretty hot, so it’s a good idea to bring a backpack stocked with bottled water. And if you run out, don’t worry—ABC Stores are practically everywhere and always have refrigerated bottled water (along with snacks and other essentials).
4. Free and Low-Cost Attractions
It’s now time to do what you’ve come for—discovering Waikiki! While there are many places you can visit, not all are accessible if you are on a money crunch. To make things easier and affordable for you make sure to visit these places:
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Becah is one of the top places to visit especially if you’re staying in Waikiki. And you know what’s the best part about it? It’s absolutely free! You can spend your day here sunbathing and getting tanned on the sandy beach or simply swimming in the Pacific Ocean.
There are many water activities also available on the beach which you can try out. I really liked paddleboarding which was actually quite affordable with rentals starting around $15.
Also, when you’re here, don’t forget to leave the beach after watching the beautiful sunset merging in the Pacific. It’s quite a sight to cherish!
Waikiki Aquarium
Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest aquarium in the United States. It features the Pacific’s extensive marine biodiversity, comprising over 3,500 marine organisms and 500 species, some of which include Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fishes of many colors, and displays of live coral.
It works in collaboration with the University of Hawai‘i in marine education, and conservation, and, of course, showcases unique Hawaiian marine life. With inexpensive entry tickets and its stunning oceanfront location is a must-see if you’re visiting Waikiki.
Entry fees:
- Adults (13+) – $12
- Senior (65+) – $5
- Junior (>13) – $5
- Infants (>3) – $0
- Kama’aina – $8
Kapiolani park
Kapiolani Park is a free park that the tourists as well as the locals love to visit. It is set at the foot of Diamond Head, an iconic crater in the city of Honolulu, Hawaii. This park is a delightful excursion and haven for jogging, picnicking, and sports activities like tennis and soccer.
You get everything when you come here. It features stunning views of Diamond Head, the famous volcanic crater. Located inside the park, the zoo hosts endless numbers of animals, making it an excellent place to take the kids. There’s also an open-air amphitheater featuring concerts and performances.
Kapiʻolani Park is a blend of natural beauty and cultural sites, thus making it equally appealing for relaxing, exercising, and outings.
Pearl Harbor
Want to know something about the history of Hawaii, I suggest you head to Pearl Harbor. You get to book a tour if you want or just get entry tickets and explore the place on your own.
Pearl Harbor is a historic naval base in Oʻahu, Hawaii, known for the Japanese attack, which led the U.S. to enter World War II.
Sites to visit include the USS Arizona Memorial honoring those who died aboard the battleship, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial, where Japan formally surrendered. The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum offers a glimpse into WWII naval history.
Pearl Harbor is definitely a more significant site for reflection and education about the events that occurred during the war.
Duke Kahanamoku Statue
You probably must have seen everyone on the beach of Waikiki. But do you know who was the origin of its popularity? It was a legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer named Duke Kahanamoku. Known as the “Father of Modern Surfing,” he helped establish surfing as a global sport at the iconic Waikiki Beach.
Duke Kahanamoku won three Olympic gold medals in swimming and served as a cultural ambassador for Hawaii. The Duke Kahanamoku statue was built to honor him, honoring his legacy of surfing and Hawaiian tradition.
King Kamehameha Statue
When you’re in Waikiki, don’t forget to come face to face with the Hawaiian royalty, King Kamehameha. While you may not see him alive, the statue will definitely make you feel as if you are standing in front of a real royalty.
Waikiki and Hawaii on the whole have been celebrated by the kings and the queens and the story is still alive. Watching them in front of you is a great free thing to do when you are here.
Explore Historical Sites
Looking to know a bit more about Waikiki? Take a self-guided tour along the Waikiki Historic Trail, which features 21 stops marked by surfboard-shaped signs detailing local legends and history—totally free!
From beaches to forts, you’ll get to visit almost anything and everything in and around Waikiki on a budget. For more information on the stops, make sure to visit their website.
Listen To The Royal Hawaiian Band
One of the oldest traditions of the kingdom was the Royal Hawaiian Band, which played at ceremonious events. Though the occasion is less formal now, it still performs for the entertainment of Hawaiian people.
Free concerts are given every Friday from noon to 1:00 P.M. in the Iolani Palace courtyard, with occasional performances at the International Marketplace as well.
Royal Hawaiian Center
The Royal Hawaiian Center is a premier shopping and dining destination located in the heart of Waikiki. It offers a generous selection of luxury boutiques, local shops, and restaurants.
Hula shows, lei-making demonstrations and various other Hawaiian cultural offerings are available throughout the week, all at no charge. The center features art galleries and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and residents alike.
Lyon Arboretum
The volcanic glorious Lyon Arboretum is located on 194 acres of stunning botanical garden land in the Manoa Valley of Honolulu, Hawaii. There are scenic hiking trails that lead to waterfalls and glorious landscapes, a haven for nature lovers and those looking for something to do.
You get free entry inside the park, though donations of $5 are recommended to benefit the programs and plant collections. It makes a great place for sensing natural beauty and diversity in a versatile atmosphere.
5. Enjoy Local Culture
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture without spending much! Attend local festivals or events that often feature free entertainment such as music performances or cultural demonstrations.
Torch Lighting Ceremony
One of the free events in Waikiki we have attended is the ceremonial torch lighting and a dance performance on Kuhio Beach.
The shows take place during winter months from 6:00 PM (Nov-May) and then from 6:30 PM all year except during winter months, on Thursdays and Saturdays.
These performances have become increasingly popular, so come early with your towel to secure a decent spot.
Just head inland from the main part of Waikiki Beach toward Diamond Head to get there: walk through the green knoll dotted with banyan trees toward the statue of Duke Kahanamoku.
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center too organize a torch lighting ceremony at their Fountain Courtyard from 6 PM to 6:15 PM.
Hula Show
For a true Hawaiian experience, you should not miss the exciting Kuhio Beach Hula Show, held every Tuesday and Friday at 6:30 PM.
This captivating display of traditional Hawaiian hula dance is enhanced by live music and torch lighting that guarantees a truly memorable cultural experience.
What’s more, the wonderful show is offered free of charge to provide residents and visitors with the opportunity to savor the beauty of Hawaiian traditions in an exceptional beachfront setting.
Just make sure to get there early to get a good spot and be welcomed by the rhythms and graceful moves that pay homage to the spirit of Hawaii.
Ukulele Lessons
Spend some time in learning a new interest. The ukulele is much like a guitar but a smaller version. It’s pretty easy to learn playing it.
If you’re interested you can join Ukulele lessons held at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre that’s held at 10 AM on Tuesday & Thursday and at 11:30 AM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Lei Making
Making leis is an old tradition in Hawaii, which invariably includes crafting garlands from flowers, leaves, and other materials offered by nature.
Often given as symbols of love, friendship, and celebration, leis are exchanged on special occasions, at ceremonies, and even as casual greetings.
There are several simple lei-making workshops where participants learn to weave flowers, leaves, and other materials into leis of their own design. Visit the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center for the workshop held every Monday and Wednesday at 11 AM.
Such hands-on experiences provide connections with Hawaiian culture through the creation of personal keepsakes.
6. Eating On A Budget
Time for the most delicious part! Don’t worry, we won’t let you starve. If you are looking for some cheap eats and delicious food, we’ve got plenty of that for you!
Local Eats
Dining in Hawaii may cost a good sum of money, but plenty of bargains are available for those who know where to look. Food stalls and food trucks are in abundance in Waikiki, cooking mouthwatering meals at appealing prices. Try the local favorites like loco moco, poke bowls, and plate lunches.
Grocery Stores
It will help if you stock up on snacks and staples at local grocery stores like Foodland or Walmart. These places usually offer ready-to-eat meals that are far less costly than a meal in a restaurant3.
Happy Hours
Many restaurants have happy hours that can save you a large amount on both food and drinks including tropical cocktails. Check for deals in tourist magazines available around town.
7. Take Advantage of Discounts
Grab some free tourist magazines at the stands. Usually, they contain some cool and useful coupons for attractions, dining, or shopping. Many hotels also have free activities or discounts for their guests, great ways to explore the island on a budget.
Whether it’s tours, meals, or experiences, these freebies and discounts will add great value to your trip, beautifying your experience in Waikiki.
8. Plan Your Activities Wisely
A rough itinerary to maximize your time in Waikiki is just the way to go. You can indeed enjoy the picturesque area for little or no money without missing other attractions worth visiting for a fee.
Your plan should involve one or two paid activities along with a similar number of free experiences to allow for budget balancing while exploring the host of offerings the destination has to provide.
With the right itinerary, you will be able to have the best of two worlds-unforgettable fun and affordable fun.
Start Exploring Waikiki On A Budget
Waikiki has plenty of affordable and entertaining activities for everyone. Make advanced plans to best enjoy the free attractions, local discounts, and other budget-friendly options so that you can get the most out of this tropical paradise without breaking your wallet. So get ready to make your way through engrossing Waikiki and take in every moment as you create beautiful experiences that you’d cherish for a lifetime while still being on a budget!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth renting a car in Waikiki?
For budget travelers, it may not be necessary to rent a car. Waikiki has good public transport options and most attractions are within walking distance or accessible via buses. However, you can go for renting a moped or a scooter which is cheap compared to renting a car.
What is the cheapest time to visit Waikiki?
Traveling in the off-season, typically from mid-April to early June or September to early December, can help you find lower prices on accommodations and activities.
How can I enjoy Waikiki’s nightlife without breaking the bank?
Enjoy happy hour specials at local bars, or check out free live music events at certain venues around the area. Many beachside locations offer affordable drinks.