Money Saving Hawaii

Which island? I went to Kaui 6 years ago so can tell you about that if its where you are going?

Welcome as a Newbie.

Have you used the search facility? There are at least two fairly recent threads on Hawaii.

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=153283

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=144609

Each of the islands is very different. I assume you'll be going to Oahu. This is the most commercialised island and, although the basic prices are expensive, there are many discount magazines on offer.

However, be prepared to spend more than you think! There are so many things to spend money on.

The biggest bargain is on transportation. Unless you're really flush, don't even consider hiring a car. Even if you think the hire rates are reasonable, the additional insurance is dear. Also, parking costs at least $10 per night!

Get a pass for The Bus - 4 days from ABC Stores ($20), one month from the 7-11 (and other) Stores ($40).

Food is a way of life for the Americans, of course, so you won't be short of choice. Here again, value for money is usually very good, but you'll eat (and spend!) more than you think! There are food halls in all shopping malls and a big one in the International Marketplace in Waikiki. We like the one in the Ala Moana shopping mall between Waikiki and Honolulu.

Find time to visit the Dole Plantation and the World's Largest Maze!

This is the wrong time of year for the big breakers on the North Shore, but you will probably find some surfers out somewhere! If you enjoy snorkelling, the place to go is Hanauma Bay and not far from there is the Sea Life Park dolphin show.