Which Hawaiian Island Is Cheapest?

If you are planning a visit to Hawaii and are on a tight budget, you might be wondering what island is the cheapest. We researched all Hawaiian Islands to find the least expensive one to visit. Let’s find out which one made it to the top of the list!

Everyone knows traveling to Hawaii is not cheap. But that doesn’t stop tourists from visiting the spectacular islands each year. We found Oahu to be the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit. Oahu made it to the top of the list with affordable prices, budget hotels, and cheap outdoor activities.

Holidaymakers looking for a budget holiday in Hawaii will find that Oahu is precisely what they’ve been looking for. We break down our findings below to show you how we found Oahu to be the cheapest to visit. Read on to find out how to save money while visiting this lovely island.

Oahu – The Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit

How did we come to this conclusion? To determine which island was the cheapest, we looked at the different prices between flights, hotels, holiday rentals, and transportation. Holidaymakers typically save up for months before planning and booking a trip to the Hawaiian Islands. We want to make sure you get value for money when visiting the Hawaiian Islands.

We found Oahu the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, with flights, hotel, and rental car for two persons at $2,650 a week. In contrast, Maui is more costly, with an average cost of $3,700 a week for two persons.

Flight Costs to Oahu, Hawaii

Our research will show that Oahu is the cheapest. However, it didn’t have the most affordable flights at the time. We used Kayak at https://www.kayak.com/flights/ to determine flight costs for this survey. We searched for flights from LAX to each Hawaiian island listed below.

Return airfare per person as per June 2022 prices are:

  • Oahu: United Airlines $699 return airfare per person.
  • Big Island โ€“ Kona: United Airlines $537 return airfare per person.
  • Maui: Hawaiian Airline $809 return airfare per person.
  • Kauai: American Airlines $740 return airfare per person.

Accommodation Costs in Oahu, Hawaii

We used TripAdvisor at https://www.tripadvisor.com/ to find the best deals for hotels.

Hotels

The average Hotel price for two adults in one room for seven days is:

  • Oahu: Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa at $ 295. Double room two adults.
  • Big Island – Kona: Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel at $442.00. Double room two adults.
  • Maui: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa at $1005.45. Double room two adults.
  • Kauai: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa at $1188.95. Double room two adults.

Holiday Rentals

The average holiday rentals for two adults for seven days are:

Oahu: Alovelyholiday rental on the beach that sleeps 2-4 persons with AC, Wi-Fi, swimming pool, parking, washer, and dryer priced at $396 per night for two persons for a seven-day stay totals $3,168.

Big Island โ€“ Kona: Beautiful holiday rental at Malulani Green Haven in Kona priced at $589 per night for two persons for a seven-day stay totals $4125. A scenic 180-degree ocean view from the back lanai and a mountain view on the opposite side gave this holiday rental high reviews.

Maui: Two bedrooms with 2-bathrooms. Beautiful view from the master room, priced at $1,425 per night and $9,980 for seven nights. Destination Residences features stylish interiors and excellent service.

Kauai: Seaview Laguna Beach House with three bedrooms, sleeps 6, offers beautiful ocean views, and is only minutes away from white sandy beaches priced at $595 per night and $4,145 for seven nights.

Car Rental in Oahu, Hawaii

We used Rentalcars.com at https://www.rentalcars.com/en/ to find the best deals for a medium car with unlimited mileage for seven days.

Car rental in Hawaii for seven days is priced at:

Oahu: Mitsubishi Mirage four seats, automatic, holds one large bag and one small bag in the boot. With unlimited mileage for seven days at $539.46.

Big Island โ€“ Kona: Toyota RAV4, five seats, automatic hold 3 Large bags in the boot. With unlimited mileage for seven days at $642.85.

Maui: Ford Escape, five seats, automatic, holds 3 Large bags in the boot. With unlimited mileage for seven days at $660.23.

Kauai: Ford Fiesta, four seats, automatic holds one large bag and one small bag in the boot. With unlimited mileage for seven days at $582.68.

Affordable Restaurants in Oahu, Hawaii

Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Bar

Enjoy signature steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steak House; order the finest cut of prime beef, grilled to perfection, glazed with butter and fresh parsley on a sizzling hot plate.

The warm hospitality and good times at Ruth’s Chris Steak house will leave you wanting more. Enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail from Ruth’s Chris bar, blended with the freshest ingredients and finest spirits.

 Ruth’s Chris Steak house can be found online to make a reservation at: https://www.ruthschris.com/

Chart House Waikiki

Chart House Waikiki is in the center of Waikiki and is open seven days for dinner, weekend brunch, and happy hour.

Chart House Waikiki is a favorite with tourists and locals alike. They serve great food, have bigger than average-sized portions, and are very affordable.

The great ambiance at Chart House is what sets it apart from other restaurants in the area; it makes you feel you are part of the Waikiki traditions. Find them online here https://charthousewaikiki.com/ to see their online menu and inexpensive specials to make a reservation.

Duke’s Waikiki

Duke’s Waikiki offers an authentic Waikiki atmosphere and excellent affordable meals. Experience historical Waikiki at Duke’s. This world-renowned restaurant was named after Waikiki’s beloved son, Duke Kahanamoku, who rode an enormous wave for 1 1/8 miles at Waikiki in 1929. To date, it is still the longest ride recorded.

Oahu residents will tell you they take their family and friends to Duke’s for the best meals and atmosphere. Duke’s Waikiki was awarded the Hale Aina Award as the best restaurant to bring friends to Waikiki. Find Duke’s here https://www.dukeswaikiki.com/ online to view the menus and make a reservation.

Barefoot Beach Cafe

This delightful oceanfront restaurant on Queen’s Surf Beach at the Diamond Head end of Waikiki is a great place to experience authentic Hawaiian food right on the beach. They serve the freshest seafood dishes that are a taste sensation. Barefoot Beach Cafรฉ serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and all-day plates. Their cocktails are known as the best in town. Make sure you stop at Barefoot Beach Cafรฉ to taste their delicious food and drinks.

You can find Barefoot Beach Cafรฉ here  https://www.barefootbeachcafe.com/ to view their menu and make a reservation.

Doraku Sushi

If you like Sushi, you should visit Doraku restaurant; this restaurant and bar offers the best Japanese food on Oahu. Unwind and relax at Doraku Japanese restaurant with friends and family.

Doraku in the heart of Waikiki is located in the Royal Hawaiian Center on the 3rd floor. Find the escalator entrance for Doraku restaurant on Kalakaua and Seaside Avenue to take you to this delightful, affordable restaurant.

Try Doraku’s chef’s Sashimi appetizer and specialty rolls, Sushi and Sashimi plate, Maki rolls, Kushi oysters served with ceviche and wasabi sauce, or one of the many fresh seafood dishes.

You can find Doraku Sushi here online at https://dorakusushi.com/waikiki/ to make a reservation.

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Affordable Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii

We used Viator.com at https://www.viator.com/ to find the best fun-filled deals for affordable things to do in Oahu.

Paradise Cove Luau

Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau with beautiful sunset ocean views at Paradise Cove while listening to live Hawaiian music. During this five and half hour experience, you get to explore the Hawaiian Village to learn the arts and crafts and or test yourself at a Hawaiian Game. Ensure your appetite is ready to taste authentic Hawaiian dishes from the freshest seafood, kalua pork, fresh fruit, and tropical drinks.

At Paradise Cove, you enjoy the beautiful sunset and live entertainment from Hawaiian hula dancers, musicians, and fire twirlers, affordably priced at $127.75 for two adults. 

You can choose from three dining packages for your dining experience, and return transportation is available from all Waikiki hotels to Paradise Cove. Book this lovely Hawaiian experience here at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Paradise-Cove-Luau/d672-3186OPCL

Waikiki Luau Buffet and Rock-A-Hula Show

Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian dinner and live entertainment with the Waikiki Luau buffet and Rock-a-Hula show. Delicious dishes, fantastic music, and a warm Hawaiian welcome with a complimentary tropical Mai Tai await you at Waikiki Luau Buffet.

The Luau-themed buffet dinner with island roasted pork and live hula performances is a great experience and very affordably priced at $80.75 for two adults.

Participate in a hula lesson for some extra fun. The Waikiki Luau is in the center of Waikiki, within walking distance from most hotels. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live entertainment at Waikiki Luau Buffet with the Rock-A-Hula show, fire blowing, and knife dancing you will never forget.
Book your buffet dinner and show night at Waikiki Luau Buffet and Hula Show here: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Rock-A-Hula-Luau-Buffet-and-Show/d672-3961P32

Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Tour

Take a tour of the historical Pearl Harbor visitor center and a short boat ride to the National Memorial Cemetery and USS Arizona Memorial, where you can experience and learn about one of the United States’ most horrific moments during World War II.

Explore WWII history at Pearl Harbor at the visitor center and the Road to War and Attack galleries. These exhibits showcase pictures and historical artifacts from the horrific events at Pearl Harbor.

The Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial tour includes transportation and a personal tour guide and is affordably priced at $101.07 for two adults.

Book the Pearl Harbor USS Arizona guided tour here at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Pearl-Harbor-and-Honolulu-City-Tour/d672-117916P4

Oahu Circle Island and Snorkeling Tour

If you are in Oahu for a short stay, you should definitely book a full-day circle island tour. This action-packed tour will take you to the Dole Plantation, private beaches, Diamond Head, and even a local coffee plantation.

The snorkeling part of the full-day tour offers an opportunity to snorkel in turtle- and tropical fish waters. Book this exciting all-day island-guided tour to visit Oahu’s best attractions and learn everything about Hawaiian history and culture.

Return pick up from your hotel is included with snorkeling equipment, drinking water, and snacks.
Oahu Island and snorkeling tour is affordably priced at $ 100.00 for two adults. Book it here at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Oahu-Circle-Island-Snorkeling-Tour-16-Points-of-Interest/d672-191335P1

Kualoa Ranch – ATV Raptor Jurassic Park Movie Set Tour

Enjoy an exciting day exploring the Kualoa Ranch on an ATV tour of Ka’a’awa Valley through the gorgeous valley in a 4WD ATV where you can see filming locations from the movie Jurassic Park.

Driving through mud and streams in secluded areas, this exciting, adrenaline-filled tour is a great way to see natural Oahu away from crowded beaches.

The ATVs have enough space for two adults to six smaller persons. Enjoy driving along scenic trails to famous movie set locations. Snacks and drinks are not included in the price. This popular one-hour tour will let you drive on a beautiful route on this spectacular 1,000-acre Ka’a’awa Valley property. 

A few rules and regulations apply when booking this tour:

  • Not recommended for visitors with back injuries.
  • Not recommended for pregnant visitors.
  • Minimum two persons per ATV.
  • At least one person must be 21 years old.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Children under five will not be allowed on this tour.

The Kualoa Ranch ATV Offroad tour is affordably priced at $148.20 for two adults and can be found online at:  https://www.viator.com/tours/Oahu/Kualoa-Ranch-UTV-Tours/d672-5132P16

Conclusion

Hawaii has the Aloha spirit, great climate, pristine beaches, incredible surf, and spectacular scenery. The only problem is it is not cheap. Hawaii is on everyone’s bucket list, but most people feel it is too expensive.

We researched and found Oahu to be the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit if you have a tight budget. We hope this article was informative and that you consider a visit to this incredible island now that you understand it is very affordable.

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