Traveling Hawaii on a Budget

You're more likely to find discounted fares and specials during the off season, which runs from May to September. You can also comparison shop for tickets in places like CheapoAir. If you're willing to fly during the week or at inconvenient times (like the middle of the night), these are usually cheaper as well.

Once in Hawaii, rent a bicycle instead of car, and use it as a chance to enjoy the outdoors and get a better taste of the local flavor. If you prefer a car, book one online in advance, as prices tend to be higher once you're in Hawaii. The islands of Oahu and Maui have an excellent public bus service that stops at most top destinations and main attractions. If you're thinking of joining a tour, search online in advance, as many companies offer a discount for advanced booking. When you sign up for a tour right at your hotel, you usually pay inflated tourist prices.

The most expensive hotels and resorts in Hawaii are those overlooking the beach, especially on the islands of Maui and Oahu. Booking a hotel just a couple of blocks from the ocean will save you money, and if you're willing to stay 10 to 15 minutes from the beach, prices drop dramatically. Most hotels in Hawaii have pools, so you can always relax there if you don't feel like walking to the ocean several times a day.

Some chains, such as Best Western, have buildings on the islands, and while amenities are minimum, prices are always lower. You can also look into bed and breakfasts or guest houses, although these will usually be away from the beach. For longer stays, a condo can be a good option if you're traveling with a big group or family, since you can split the costs as well as save money by cooking your own food and doing your own laundry.

If you're planning on enjoying more than one popular activity, such as snorkeling in Honaunau Bay or windsurfing in Hookipa Beach, consider buying an Entertainment Book. This discount booklet, which sells for anywhere between $10 and $35 (depending on the time of the year you buy it) offers discounts of up to 50 percent for major attractions and destinations, including a free glass-bottom boat ride, a free round of miniature golf and discounted entrance to major museums, attractions and outdoor adventure destinations. The book also offers discounts to spas and shopping centers.

At the hotel's lobby or airport lounge, grab brochures, tourist guides and discount booklets. Many include coupons or free offers that you won't be able to find anywhere else. Some popular activities, such as sunbathing (beaches in Hawaii are public and open to everybody), watching the sunset over Bali Hai or exploring the Kilauea Lighthouse, require no entry fee or expense whatsoever and can be a great way to fill your time in between paid activities. Some popular destinations are not expensive, such as the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where it costs $10 per car (not person) to enter the park. Tee times tend to be expensive in Hawaii, so your best bet if you want to golf in Hawaii is to book time and space in advance so you can search for the best rates online.