anouchka//Keynote USA/Getty Images
Hawaii is the perfect summer getaway, but it can also be quite expensive. If you arrive by plane, you must take into account the airfare. But even if not, lodging, food, ground transportation, and entertainment can add up.
Check out: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024
Read: How to get $340 a year in cash back on gas and other things you already buy
The good news is that you can visit Hawaii while still being budget-conscious. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do on the islands, from hiking to waterfalls and swimming to enjoying local culture and history at popular sites and museums.
No matter what you like, here are some of the most fun and affordable things to do in Hawaii this summer, and their approximate cost.
Go from beach to beach
You can’t take a trip to Hawaii without visiting its stunning beaches. The good news is that this is free, although in some cases you may have to pay for parking.
“Each of the Hawaiian Islands has a stunning coastline where one can have wonderful experiences and see exceptional marine life. One of the most fun things to do is free ‘beach hopping’ in Hawaii, spending all day going from beach to beach,” said Amanda Wilson, WGN News USA travel expert. “To name just three, they include Oahu’s Waikiki Beach, Kauai’s Poipu Beach and Maui’s Kaanapali Beach. The beaches are beautiful and suitable for swimming, sunbathing or having a picnic.”
Learn: Barbara Corcoran: Here’s Why I Never Fly First Class
Go snorkelling
While you’re at the beach, why not try snorkeling too?
“You can’t go wrong with snorkeling if you’re on a budget. There is a great snorkeling spot in Hanauma Bay on Oahu, where you can see different varieties of fish and brightly colored coral formations,” Wilson said. “Entry to this bay is around $25 per adult and includes an orientation on marine conservation that lasts a few minutes at most. If you bring your snorkeling equipment it costs even less.”
Visit a local market
Hawaii is full of farmers markets, which are free to the public and a great way to experience local culture. The only cost is what you decide to buy while you are there.
Wilson suggested the KCC Farmers Market, held every Saturday in Honolulu. It’s a great place to shop for fresh produce, including tropical fruits you won’t find anywhere else, homemade treats, cultural souvenirs, and food galore. “Most things are sold at reasonable prices and snacks cost between $5 and $15,” he said.
Alternatively, head to the Hilo Farmers’ Market on Big Island, open every Wednesday and Saturday.
The story continues
“(It) is also exceptional in that it offers a lot of fresh produce, locally created crafts, flowers, etc.,” Wilson said. “It truly represents the vibrant, multi-colored spirit of Hawaii. “I always say that at farmers markets you can get a real taste of Hawaii, both in terms of flavors and culture.”
Check out Waimea Valley
If you’re on Oahu, Waimea Valley is a must-see.
“Explore the Waimea Valley, where for $20 you can enjoy the botanical gardens and swim in Waimea Falls,” said Bryan Murphy, owner of Hawaii’s Best Travel.
Hiking
If you’re on a budget and don’t want to spend a lot of money, or anything at all, take a day trip.
“One of my favorite hikes in Hawaii is the Diamond Head Trail on Oahu. For just $5, this trail offers mesmerizing views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean from afar,” Wilson said. “The hike is moderately difficult but is accessible to all fitness levels.”
Another option is to hike the Kīlauea Iki trail on the Big Island.
“You are charged a $30 fee per vehicle at the park gate, which gives you a seven-day entry pass,” Wilson said. “This trail passes through dense tropical forests while crossing a lake of solidified lava, offering an unforgettable hiking adventure.”
You can also visit the Koko Head Trail outside Honolulu for free.
Explore Kauai
Kaua’i is the fourth largest island in Hawaii and is worth the trip if you like history and nature and are going to Hawaii, so chances are it is.
“Visit the Koloa Heritage Trail and the Allerton National Tropical Botanical Gardens for about $20,” Murphy said. “(These) offer a glimpse into local history and impressive plant life.”
Visit historical and cultural sites
“One of the things Hawaii is well known for is its history and culture, and a visit to historic sites is educational and economical,” Wilson said. “Pearl Harbor on Oahu is an important historic site that allows free admission to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center as well as the USS Arizona Memorial.”
In both cases, you can also opt for a paid tour or special exhibitions. But even the free sections offer a great insight into what happened during World War II, he said.
Another popular site is the Byodo-In temple. Located on Oahu, the visit is only $5.
Check out the state parks
Hawaii is home to 51 state parks, but if you’re in Maui, Murphy suggested visiting ʻĪao Valley State Park. It only costs about $5 and has a lot to offer in the way of Hawaiian history and scenic trails.
Another option is Haleakala National Park on Maui. It costs $15 per person or $30 for a private vehicle pass.
Spend time at Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
Located on the Big Island is the country’s only rainforest zoo, Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and is free to visit, although you can make a donation.
Hike the Historic Lahaina Trail
You can also take a self-guided walking tour called the Lahaina Historic Trail. It takes you through the historic town of Lahaina on Maui. It also passes historic sites like the Baldwin Home Museum and Lahaina Banyan Court.
“It’s an interesting way to learn about this island’s past, most of which can be accessed without paying any fees,” Wilson said.
Visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center
Back on the Big Island, visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center. “You can tour the farm, sample products and explore the grounds for less than $10,” Murphy said. “My family loved this one!”
go to a luau
Luaus can be expensive, but they’re also a bucket-list item to check off. If you want to save money, some places will let you skip the meal and just watch the show. At Smith’s Kauai Luau, tickets to the show are just $25.
More GOBankingRates Content
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 12 Fun, Inexpensive Things to Do in Hawaii This Summer and How Much They Cost
Keynote USA
For the Latest Local News, Follow Keynote USA Local on Twitter.