Visitors and locals alike can agree on one thing – there’s no denying the rich beauty and culture of Hawaii. From the people to the breathtaking beaches and exciting activities you can experience, it’s no wonder the islands keep visitors coming back again and again. Many people talk about being deprived of this rich experience because of the heavy dent it will leave on their wallet. In reality, however, any smart vacationer can find affordable options with some local perspective and smart research. By shopping around and looking for cheap or even free options, a Hawaiian vacation can be a dream turned reality for all to enjoy. For the wise vacationer, time and money should be the key elements in planning your trip to Hawaii. Transportation, dining and entertainment expenses should be maximized – getting the most bang for your buck is the key ingredient! Let’s look at some tips for travelers who want to make the most of their Hawaiian vacation without leaving a gaping hole in their vacation fund:
Choosing The Right Entertainment:
For those traveling alone or with a large group, finding the right entertainment choices for all to enjoy can sometimes be a challenge. There are so many excursion and tour options available and so little time to enjoy every single one. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Waikiki to enjoy a more authentic Hawaiian experience, the attractions at the Polynesian Cultural Center is your one-stop-shop for all things local. With activities for the whole family to enjoy and unique and exciting adventures to be had, you can maximize your time while enjoying authentic Hawaiian culture.
In addition to the luaus and village experiences offered at the PCC, the North Shore Explorers offer a unique PCC experience with the Lunar Legends Lagoon Tour. Visitors can enjoy paddling along the smooth PCC lagoons aboard their very own stand-up paddleboard. Water excursions not quite your thing? No problem. Try our Segway rentals and cruise around the grounds of the PCC in style! The North Shore Explorers at the PCC and the Hukilau Marketplace offers tours and rentals both within the walls of the PCC or we’ll set you up to freely cruise around the North Shore. Come and check us out and see what we can do to make your Hawaii Vacation a memorable adventure for all!
Ride the Bus
Rental cars can take a heavy toll on your vacation budget, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period of time. The beauty of being on an island is that many worthwhile attractions are only a skip, hop and a jump away. Oahu offers a public transportation option for those who would prefer to let someone else do the driving. From Downtown Honolulu, to Waikiki and all the way to the North Shore, The Bus offers rides to some of the most popular attractions on the island. Adult one-way rides are $2.50 with discounts for keiki (children) and seniors and four-day passes that boast unlimited rides for visitors during their stay. The best part about riding the bus – you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island without the hassle of keeping your eyes on the road!
Beaches and Hikes are Free
Most beaches and hikes on the island are open and free to the public. A little bit of research beforehand will tell you which hikes and beaches are free to visit and which will require you to pay. Hikes and private beaches that require payment, like the Diamond Head hike ($1 per person) and Hanauma Bay (7.50 per person), are still a small price to pay for the gorgeous views and exquisite wildlife you are sure to see. However, with breathtaking beaches like Waimea Bay, Sharks Cove and Kakelas Beach, there is no need to have to pay if you’d prefer not to. Free hikes include gems like the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail, Maunawili Falls and Koko Head trail. Oahu offers visitors lots of options to get out and explore.
Get to Know the Locals
The Hawaiian people are some of the kindest and most generous people you will ever meet. Having a local companion with you on your Oahu adventures or asking around may surprise you in unexpected ways. Locals know the ins and outs of the island and have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to recommending the local-known hot spots. Make a friend and maybe they’ll share their hidden beach spots, hints for hiking trails or even give you private surf lessons! Show some Aloha and you are sure to get Alohax10 in return.
The beauty and magic of our island home, Oahu, is made even more magical when you’re not stressed about your bank account. Being smart about budgeting your Hawaii vacation and visiting destinations outside of the tourist traps of Waikiki is sure to lighten the load on your wallet and will keep you happy and worry-free during your visit with us. Your bank account is sure to thank you with a big Mahalo when you leave! So get out there and Let The Adventure Begin!
Don’t forget to comment below and tell us what kinds of tips you want to hear about for your next visit to Oahu’s North Shore.
Aloha,
The North Shore Explorers
by | Feb 2, 2017