Budget Outdoors in Hawaii
Description:
This economy doesn't do much for the pocketbook, especially when traveling somewhere as notoriously pricy as the Big Island. Luckily, there is still a way to experience Hawaii's gorgeous outdoors without breaking the bank.
When planning a budget trip to Hawaii, it is important to remember that you are most likely going to need a car to get around, and that in itself can eat up money. With a car, however, you can see the island on your own terms and get to all of the spectacular (and free!) sightseeing available. With that in mind, remember that most of this trip is built around adventures on your own two feet – do not forget your hiking boots and lots of water. There are a couple of expenses, but they are limited to truly spectacular things to do. Your hotels may not be luxurious, but they are locally run and known for their budget-conscious quality, wonderful places to rest your head after a long day of volcano hiking.
In terms of food, I would recommend visiting local grocery stores and stocking up on bread, cheese, salami, and other portable foodstuffs for lunches – you’ll save $$$ if you pack them yourselves, allowing you to explore local food and nightlife at night.
Author: Amy
Day 1 - Big Island (Hawaii), Hilo
Your first day should be dedicated to getting off the plane, renting a car, finding and checking into your hotel, and finding out about local grocery options. Your first hotel, Carson’s Volcano Cottages, includes breakfast everyday, helping lessen your food costs. Also, don’t forget to take them up on their afternoon refreshments. Explore the hotel and vicinity, and perhaps take a dip in the hot tub.
1
Carson's Volcano Cottages
Location:
view in google maps113920 6th St
Mauna Loa Estates
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96785
Phone:
+1 808 967 76832
Ahalanui Beach Park
Location:
view in google mapsHighway 137 (Red Road)
Between MacKenzie State Park & Isaac Hale Beach Park
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96778
2
Humuula Trail
Location:
view in google mapsKeanakolu Rd
Hilo, HI 96743
Phone:
800-GOHAWAII2
Pescatore
Location:
view in google maps235 Keawe Street
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96720
Phone:
808-969-90902
Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park
Location:
view in google mapsHighway 19
(between mile markers 90 and 91)
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96740
Phone:
808-974-6200Day 2 - Big Island (Hawaii)
As this is a budget outdoors trip, strap on your hiking boots, eat a big breakfast at Carson’s and venture off to your hike of the day. If you consider yourself an experienced hiker, you must try the Crater Rim Trail. It is a long, challenging 11 mile loop – don’t forget food and water – that WILL take you all day. You can expect hot and dry conditions, as well as potential sulfur fumes – asthmatics be warned. BE CAREFUL and stay on the trail, as the National Park Service website reminds you “Falling on lava can result in severe wounds”. After such a long day, ht up Volcano's Lava Rock Cafe. Locals eat here, and unless you're absolutely dying for foie gras, there's nothing better than a burger and milkshake after your trek.
1
Crater Rim Trail
Location:
view in google mapsCrater Rim Dr
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96718
Phone:
808-985-60002
Volcano's Lava Rock Cafe
Location:
view in google mapsOld Volcano Road
(behind Kilauea General Store)
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96785
Phone:
+1 808 967 8526Day 3 - Big Island (Hawaii)
For Day Three, check out the nature along the Puu Oo Trail. The scenery and natural wonder is amazing, and you have a chance to take a dip in a waterhole along the way. Lots of birdwatching and cooler temperatures are a nice respite from yesterday’s aridness. Stay warm and pay attention to the trail, you may get lost. For dinner, grab some stir fry at Thai Thai.
1
Puu Oo Trail
Location:
view in google mapsHwy 11
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96718
Phone:
800-GOHAWAII2
Thai Thai Restaurant
Location:
view in google maps19-4084 Old Volcano Rd
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96785
Phone:
808-967-7969Day 4 - Big Island (Hawaii)
Today, we move and explore the other side of the Island. You have a three hour drive on your hands, so turn on some music and enjoy the scenery. Your new hotel, Uncle Billy’s, is a locally run operation, so be sure to ask for tips on what to see and do (breakfast is also included). Once you arrive and check in, explore Kona and grab dinner at Merriman’s, a local institution.
1
Merriman's
Location:
view in google maps65-1227 Opelo Rd
Opelo Plaza
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96743-2349
Phone:
808 885 6822Day 5 - Big Island (Hawaii)
Today’s adventure is for fitness and history buffs alike. In Kealakekua Bay Historical Park, you can snorkel, rent a Kayak, and visit the monument to Captain James Cook. After dinner, get ready for one of the more expensive but more exciting parts of your trip – Sea Paradise’s Manta Night Experience! Rated as one of the “Top 10 Things to Do in Your Life”, it will set you back a bit of money, but may be the perfect splurge for your trip.
1
Kealakekua Bay Historical Park
Location:
view in google mapsPu'uhonoa Road and Highway 160
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96750
2
Sea Paradise
Location:
view in google mapsPO Box 390159
Keauhou Bay
Big Island (Hawaii), HI 96739
Phone:
+1 808 322 2500 / +1 800 322 5662