Travel Oahu on a Budget with Your Family: Hotels, Cars, and More
Are you planning a trip to Oahu and want to save some money? Check out these awesome Oahu travel hacks for visiting Oahu on a budget!
These travel tips on how to travel on Oahu on a budget were written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
When I tell people that I take my kids to Hawaii about once a year, I always explain that my Mom lives on Kauai and we try to cut costs whenever possible.
The truth is, a trip to Hawaii (even with kids) doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. So, I've compiled my top Oahu travel hacks and tips for Oahu on a budget.
Whether it’s your first or fifth time planning a Hawaii trip, there are plenty of ways to enjoy quality time with your family without overspending.
Want a Hawaii travel guide? I've got detailed guides and 7-day itineraries!
Flying to Oahu on a Budget
Depending on where you are flying from, flights to Honolulu can be really expensive. However, Southwest Airlines will soon be starting routes to Hawaii, which may lower flight costs.
But in the meantime, here are my top tips for flying to Oahu on a budget:
AIRLINE MILES + COMPANION FARES
If you have airline miles, USE THEM! We have Alaska Airlines credit cards, on which we earn miles and a companion fare each year (we just pay the taxes on an airline ticket).
We like to save our companion fares for trips to Hawaii, especially during high season.
There's also a thing called “travel hacking.” We just started doing this, so I'm not an expert, but basically, you sign up for credit cards that will earn you points. Then, you use these points to pay for airfare and hotel rooms.
LOW SEASON
Traveling to Hawaii during the low season or shoulder season can be tricky for school-aged kids, but it is really appealing for families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
The best discounts are in October and November. You can also find decent airfare for May and September.
If you're traveling during spring break, be sure to book early to avoid peak prices and limited availability.
CHOOSE ONE ISLAND
Another way you can save money on a Hawaiian vacation is to pick one island. Island hopping can dramatically increase your expenses (with flights and baggage fees), and it eats up your precious vacation days.
Oahu offers plenty of stunning beaches and attractions for families, making it easy to stay entertained without the need to island hop. Find out the best Hawaiian island for kids.
SAVE ON BAGGAGE FEES
Take advantage of traveling with small kids. You can add clothing, diapers, and wipes to your car seat bag or stroller bag, which fly for free. Consolidate your checked luggage whenever possible.
I use these packing cubes to fit all the clothing for myself and my two kids into one suitcase.
LEAVE EARLY
We usually leave Seattle at 8:30 a.m. and arrive in Honolulu just in time for lunch. I love this because we can usually drop off our bags, grab our swimsuits, and enjoy an afternoon at the pool or beach. It's like getting a bonus travel day!
And for the same reasons, book your flight home for later in the day, if you can. Then, you can enjoy a leisurely morning in Hawaii, pick up any last-minute souvenirs, and buy yummy takeout food to eat on the airplane!
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Waikiki
For the most part, Waikiki is the most expensive place to stay on Oahu. But, it's also one of the most convenient places if you aren't renting a car. And sometimes you can get good discounts.
A few cheap places to stay on Oahu include the Waikiki Beachside Hostel, Holiday Inn Express Waikiki, the Equus, and Aqua Oasis.
Many of these options offer a convenient location, close to family-friendly spots like the Royal Hawaiian Center, which hosts free cultural performances and shops.
KAMAAINA DISCOUNT
If you happen to be traveling with someone who lives in Hawaii, look into Kamaaina discounts. Most hotels offer some sort of Kamaaina discount or benefits.
My Mom usually meets us on Oahu or Maui, and she can use her discount to save us money.
MILITARY DISCOUNT
If you are a military family, you can stay at the beautiful Hale Koa Hotel on Waikiki Beach. I walked through the grounds earlier this year, and it's in a great location, especially for kids! They also have an on-site luau.
Oahu on a Budget: Discount Accommodations
But if you really want to save money, look into some other Oahu accommodation options.
Exploring areas outside the typical tourist zones can often lead to lower accommodation rates, particularly during off-peak seasons.
STAY OUTSIDE OF WAIKIKI
One of the easiest ways to save money is to stay somewhere outside of popular Waikiki. Kailua is a quiet, suburban area with great beaches and kid-friendly restaurants. And the North Shore is really relaxed and gorgeous.
But if you want to stay close to attractions, you can find options in Honolulu.
Staying near downtown Honolulu can give you easier access to local markets, free attractions, and transit options without the higher hotel costs.
TRAVEL WITH ANOTHER FAMILY
One way to slash your housing costs in half is to split a rental with another family. You can rent a large house from Airbnb, HomeAway, or VRBO and share it with friends or family.
That also means you'll have a decent kitchen to cook at home. Plus, many of them have cribs, high chairs, and other kid items!
Having a full kitchen lets families prepare their own meals, which saves a lot on dining expenses.
COUCHSURFING
And if you really want to save some money, you can always try couchsurfing. Basically, you are staying in someone's home.
I've never done it, but I might consider it when my kids are older and less likely to cry in the middle of the night. If you're thinking about it, It's a Drama has a really good blog post about Couchsurfing with Kids.
Cheap Car Rentals in Oahu
My first suggestion is to plan out your Hawaiian itinerary to see if you need a car for your entire trip. If you really only need it for a day or two, you can save a lot of money by doing that.
Plus, sometimes you can save money by picking up somewhere outside the Honolulu Airport.
For the days when you don't need a car, you can take advantage of TheBus (Hawaii's bus system) or the Waikiki Trolley.
For the days you do want a rental car on Oahu, you can check Discount Hawaii Car RentalLittle Hawaii Rent A Car, or see the deals from Rental Car Momma.
Plus, Costco sometimes has great car rental deals. Reserve your car rental early (especially during high season) and check periodically to see if you can get a better deal. And fill up gas at Costco for the cheapest rates.
Oahu on a Budget: Dining Hacks
My family LOVES eating Hawaiian food, and we get so excited to eat on Oahu. But the food costs add up quickly. Here's how we save money on food on Oahu:
BRING FOOD FROM HOME
I wish I was joking, but food in Hawaii is soooooo expensive! Even at the grocery store. My kids loved food pouches when they were little, so I used to stock up on discounted food pouches at Big Lots here in the Seattle area and pack them in my checked luggage.
I also pack boxes of granola bars (without chocolate that will melt) and other boxed snack items.
SHAVE ICE
I can't talk about Hawaiian food without mentioning shave ice, which you absolutely HAVE to try in Hawaii.
You can find shave ice stands almost anywhere, but the most popular are Matsumoto in Haleiwa and Waiola Shave Ice (where President Obama goes).
Personally, I like to order my shave ice “snow-capped” with condensed milk and li hing mui. But you can also get a scoop of ice cream on the bottom. Get a big one and share it with your whole family to cut costs!
Enjoying shave ice by the ocean is one of those simple yet incredible experiences that makes a Hawaii trip so memorable.
COSTCO
Costco has the cheapest groceries on Oahu. There are several Costco stores on Oahu. After picking up our rental car, we usually hit the one closest to the airport.
We stock up on drinks and snacks here (especially the furikake Chex mix!) For lunches, we get sandwich makings. And we usually buy some fresh poke from their seafood area to eat for dinner.
If we are staying somewhere with a kitchen, we also buy steak, chicken, and veggies to grill. You can also buy wine, alcohol, and everything you need to make tropical drinks.
And if you want a treat, buy a box of ice cream bars or popsicles.
GROCERY STORES
You can use your Safeway Club Card at the Safeway stores on Oahu. And, you can always sign up for the free loyalty cards at other grocery stores, like Foodland.
There are also several Target and Walmart stores all over the island, including Waikiki.
AVOID HOTEL RESTAURANTS
Even though it may be convenient to have breakfast at your hotel, it's not budget-friendly (and the food isn't usually stellar.) So instead, grab some fresh fruit at the Farmer's Market or hit up a local bakery.
TAKE-OUT RESTAURANTS
One way to save money while eating out is to get your food to go. That way, you can avoid paying for drinks (just remember to pack some!). And supplement with food you buy at the grocery store.
Most plate lunches are quite large and can be easily shared, especially with kids. We like to order extra rice, which makes the meal stretch a bit further.
One of my favorite take-out restaurants on Oahu is Rainbow Drive-in.
MUSUBI
So, Hawaii is known for its love of all things SPAM. One of the most popular Hawaiian snacks is Spam musubi. Basically, it's Spam sushi. And you can find it at most ABC stores, grocery stores, and delis.
But, there are all kinds of musubi. Personally, I love getting mochiko chicken musubi from 7-11. And we recently discovered Musubi Cafe in Waikiki which has a wide assortment of musubi options. My family eats them for breakfast and for an easy lunch when we're out and about.
COFFEE
As a mom with two little kids, I'm completely on the coffee bandwagon! But I don't like the taste of drip coffee.
Instead of ordering a $4 or $5 latte every morning, I buy canned coffee and cappuccino at the grocery store. I really like the Royal Mills brand straight from the can or poured over ice in the morning.
MALASADAS
Do you know what goes great with iced coffee? Malasadas! Thanks to Leonard's Bakery, which has several locations on Oahu, these Portuguese donuts have become a Hawaii staple.
I like to buy a dozen and have them for breakfast for a few days. If you are staying somewhere with a microwave or toaster oven, they reheat nicely.
Oahu on a Budget: Cheap Luaus
Most people want to experience a luau on their Hawaiian vacation. But, luau tickets can be pricey. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly luau, here are the cheapest luaus on Oahu:
GERMAINE'S LUAU
The cheapest luau on Oahu is Germaine's Luau (this link includes round-trip shuttle service). As of November 2022, the cheapest package they offer on their site was $135 for adults, $115 for kids ages 13-20, $95 for kids 4-12, and kids ages 3 and under are free.
Here, they do a kitschy luau show and give you a free cocktail, like what you'd see in any movie set in Hawaii. But it's not the luau I'd recommend.
TOA LUAU
Instead, I'd suggest you check out Toa Luau at Waimea Valley. It's one of the newest luaus on Oahu, and it's run by people who used to perform for other luaus and wanted to create something that felt more authentic.
We've done the Toa Luau twice, and it's definitely something special. There are many crafts and hands-on activities, plus they show you how to cook traditional Samoan food.
They do serve alcohol, and you can try Kava, an ancient numbing drink that warriors used to take before battle.
The setting at Waimea Valley provides panoramic views of lush gardens and waterfalls, adding to the immersive cultural experience.
CHIEF'S LUAU
I've also been hearing good things about Chief's Luau. They just moved to a new location. It's run by Original World Fire Knife Dance Champion, Chief Sielu. How cool is that? He's also a comedian and people say it's one of the most entertaining luaus they have been to.
This is another great choice for families looking for affordable activities that blend entertainment with Hawaiian culture.
Aulani Resort Hack
While Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is amazing, it isn't exactly budget-friendly. So, instead of staying at Aulani Resort, you can just do the Aulani Character Breakfast.
After your bellies are full, head over to Lagoon #4 for beach fun! They have free parking, shady areas, and gentle water for little ones.
This nearby beach park is a family favorite for a relaxing day without the cost of resort admission.
Polynesian Cultural Center Hack
If you don't want to spend money on the whole Polynesian Cultural Center experience, you can buy general admission tickets to explore the park.
You'll be able to take part in hands-on activities, see demonstrations, enjoy Polynesian dancing, and more.
Families traveling on a budget can opt for a day pass with a small entrance fee to enjoy the exhibits and cultural performances without committing to the full luau package. Check the latest rates and availability.
At the Samoan Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center, they prepared taro root and green bananas to share with guests later in the day. Photo credit: Marcie Cheung
Oahu on a Budget: Free Activities to Enjoy
Just because you are on a Hawaiian vacation with kids doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of cash every day. Organized tours, boat trips, snorkeling adventures, etc., add up quickly.
There are quite a few free activities on Oahu that are perfect for families.
From family-friendly hikes to scenic beaches, Oahu offers plenty of ways to enjoy incredible experiences without ever pulling out your wallet.
You can get FREE tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor if you get there early! Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
PEARL HARBOR
Yes, you read that right. You can visit Pearl Harbor for FREE. However, there is a limited number of free tickets available each day, so I'd suggest getting there early if you want to score some.
FREE HULA SHOWS
Most people want to see a hula show in Hawaii. The good news is that there are free hula shows on Oahu daily.
They are usually found in shopping areas like Ala Moana Center, the International Marketplace, and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.
If you're visiting the Royal Hawaiian Center, don't miss their cultural events and complimentary hula performances—perfect for families seeking free fun.
SEE PENGUINS AND FLAMINGOS
Kids will enjoy watching wildlife specialists at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa feed penguins and flamingos in Waikiki.
FIREWORKS SHOW
The Hilton Hawaiian Village holds a spectacular fireworks show every Friday. The show usually starts around 7:45 pm or 8 pm, depending on the sunset, and lasts about 10 minutes.
The cool thing is that you don't have to stay there to enjoy them! In fact, you can see them from almost anywhere on Waikiki beach. It's a great evening activity!
ALOHA FRIDAY AT THE HYATT REGENCY
If you're in Waikiki on a Friday between 4:30 pm and 6 pm, head over to the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa to experience its weekly “Aloha Friday” Polynesian show. You can see hula dancers, lei making, fire knife dancers, and Polynesian music.
This free event is a great way to enjoy live music and island culture in the heart of Waikiki.
OAHU BEACHES
Most beaches on Oahu are completely free! And that includes Waikiki Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world!
Some of our favorites include Waimanalo Beach, Shark's Cove, and Kailua Beach, but all the beaches are awesome.
There's a small fee to visit Hanauma Bay, and some beaches have paid parking.
(Almost) Free Things to Do on Oahu
DIAMOND HEAD
One of the most recognizable things on Oahu is Diamond Head. It's a popular hike for families because it's close to Waikiki and isn't too strenuous.
The entrance fee is $5, and you must make reservations online.
BYODO IN TEMPLE
One of the prettiest places on Oahu is the Byodo In Temple on the Windward Coast. It's a replica Japanese temple with a pretty garden and a gong you can bang.
It's only $5 for adults, and you don't need reservations.
LISTEN TO LIVE HAWAIIAN MUSIC
You can listen to some of Hawaii's top musicians at local restaurants around Oahu for just the cost of a drink or a plate of pupus (Hawaiian appetizers).
Almost every bar or restaurant in Waikiki offers some sort of Hawaiian entertainment. Kani Ka Pila Grille in Waikiki is a great spot to listen to big names in Hawaiian music and maybe even see some hula dancers!
ALOHA SWAP MEET
If you are looking for cheap Hawaiian souvenirs, this is a good place to go. While it's greatly shrunk in size over the years, the Aloha Swap Meet offers inexpensive Aloha Shirts, Hawaiian dresses, snacks, ukuleles, t-shirts, toys, pareos, and more.
While previously located at Aloha Stadium, the Aloha Swap Meet has moved to the nearby Halawa District Park, where families can still find plenty of affordable souvenirs in an open-air market setting.
Visiting Oahu on a Budget FAQs
I recommend visiting Oahu during the shoulder season, which runs from mid-April to June and September to mid-November.
The cost of a trip to Hawaii will vary depending on the time of year you travel, the activities you do, and your budget. However, you can expect to spend at least $2,000 per person for a week-long trip.
The cost of food in Oahu can vary depending on where you eat and what you order. However, you can expect to spend around $20-$30 per person per day on food (on the cheap end). Getting fresh products at farmers' markets or eating at food trucks can help.
Visiting Oahu is often cheaper than Maui simply because there are more cheap flights and affordable options for hotel rooms at all price points. Oahu also has decent public transportation, hiking trails, free historic sites, and cheap things to do.
Whether or not Oahu is an expensive vacation depends on your budget and travel style. If you're looking for a luxurious experience with all the bells and whistles, then Oahu can definitely be expensive. However, there are also plenty of ways to save money on your trip, even if you're on a tight budget.
How to Visit Oahu on a Budget Wrap-Up
Visiting Oahu on a budget is not only possible but can also be a highly enjoyable experience. With so many attractions within walking distance and an abundance of natural beauty to explore, you'll find that the island offers a wealth of opportunities for affordable fun.
From spending your days soaking up the sun on Waikiki Beach to immersing yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Oahu's North Shore, there's no shortage of activities and experiences to suit every traveler's budget.
As you plan your visit to Oahu, remember to take advantage of the island's free attractions, such as hiking trails, parks, and stunning viewpoints.
You might even consider a scenic helicopter tour as a one-time splurge—it offers unforgettable panoramic views of the island’s coastline and volcanic landscape.
By prioritizing these budget-friendly activities and opting for affordable accommodation and dining options, you can experience the magic of Oahu without breaking the bank.
Thanks for sharing, I will definitely be referencing this! Hawaii is on my husband and my travel list - crossing my fingers we can make it there next year!
I hope you make it next year, too!
Oh my gosh LOVE this! What an extensive and detailed list! We are planning a trip to Oahu with our friends in a few months and I am going to be referring back to this post a lot! I especially loved your tips on staying outside of the city, as well as buying groceries at Costco and travel hacking with Alaska Airlines points. I'm definitely doing all of those tricks. Thanks again!
Oh you are going to have such a fun time! I can't wait to see you pics (I know they will be GORGEOUS, per usual!)
Being a budget traveler, I am always looking for cheap things to do in a new place. I agree with you. Traveling in low season always helps in saving money.
Yes, but it's so hard with kids to go in low season!
My daughter just told me today that she wants to go here. I'm saving this post so I can show her. She will be excited.
My kids LOVE going!
What an extensive list, and so helpful! Oahu is on my bucket list, but we probably won't get to go to Hawaii until we come back from our trip in three years.
You might need a Hawaiian vacation to recover from your huge trip!
Great tips for when I finally go to Hawaii
Hope you get there soon!
Oahu is seriously on my bucket list! I would love to be able to go one day and take my whole family on vacation.
It's such a great place for a family getaway!
Thank you for sharing this veey detailed travel hacks. Travel is quite expensive with family but following these hacks will have travelers at ease. I want to visit Hawaii!
Hawaii is such a fun vacation spot!
Oh man Hawaii looks amazeballs. Thanks for all the budget hacks 🙂
It's such a fun place!