Soak up the sun in Waikiki Beach, Oahu.
Visit the Aloha state without breaking the bank. Hawaii is the 50th state of the United States and is made up of 132 islands. The eight main islands of Hawaii are the most popular; each island is full of natural wonders including pristine beaches, lush valleys, waterfalls and towering volcanoes. Most of the natural sights are free or nearly free to visit. Make the most of your visit without overspending by planning well ahead of time and grabbing the best deals and offers available.
Instructions
1. Book your flight to Hawaii ahead of time to get the best airfare deals. Hawaiian Airlines often has airfare discounts during off-peak seasons like fall and late summer. Aside from lower airline prices, this also gives you the opportunity to explore the islands when the crowds are fewer and the hotel prices are lower. Apply your frequent flier miles to lower the flight price even more; flier miles are also applicable for inter-island airfares. This may be useful if you plan on visiting more than one island.
2. Reserve hotel rooms with package deals that include discount on activities around the islands. Aqua Waikiki Wave Hotel in Oahu offers a Snooze-N-Crooze Waikiki Beach accommodations and car package. This deal includes hotel reservations and a compact car rental with complimentary daily parking. Typically, the further the hotels are from the water, the cheaper they will be.
Condo units are also ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Condo rentals are typically cheaper than hotel rooms and are always equipped for cooking, which allows you to save money on restaurants. Many condo units also have amenities like laundry facilities, swimming pool, picnic tables and tennis courts. Find a rental car and condo package to rack up savings of up to 40 percent.
For an even more cost-effective option, consider staying in camping spaces. Low-cost campsites for tents, camper vans, trailers, A-frame shelters and cabins are available in parks such as the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area on the Big Island.
3. Enjoy budget-friendly activities like lounging on pristine beaches, hiking through scenic nature trails with waterfalls and visiting historic sites. In Maui, stop by Haleakala National Park and watch sunrise or sunset at the volcano's summit. The entrance fee costs $10 and is valid for three days. Drive along the winding road to Hana and stop by points along the way to swim at Red Sand Beach or to trek through bamboo forests. Other attractions include cliffs and waterfalls. Rent snorkeling gear, which typically costs less than $10, and view colorful marine plants and animals like corals and sea turtles. Check with the local visitor's bureau for free activities.
4. Buy fresh produce and sample local offerings from farmer's markets. Food prices are lower and the event allows visitors to meet local farmers while trying cultural dishes. In Kauai, weekly farmer's markets are held at Kapaa New Town Ball Park parking lot by Bypass Road.
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