The Best Time Of Year To Visit Hawaii To Save The Most Money

With its tropical climate, Hawaii never goes out of season, but travel prices surely do. Luckily, if you time your trip right, you could save hundreds on a Hawaiian vacation. According to Hawaii Guide, the sweet spot to visit the island is during April, May, September, and October. These months, known as the shoulder season, often provide the biggest savings on accommodations, airfare, and experiences.

These months not only offer a chance to experience Hawaii at discounted rates, but they also allow travelers to enjoy the magical islands without the intensity of peak season crowds. During this time, visitors may find more availability at popular resorts and a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the various beaches of Hawaii. Whether you're planning to lounge on golden beaches, hike lush trails, or simply enjoy time away from work, choosing the right time to visit can make a big difference in how much you spend.

Due to its location, Hawaii is one of the most expensive states because most goods have to be imported, so finding areas to save when traveling is essential. To make the most out of the shoulder season, Hawaii Guide recommends booking flights and accommodations early to get the best deals. A good rule of thumb is to book flights about four months before your trip and accommodations two or three months in advance.

As for how much you can expect to spend on accommodations, nightly midscale hotel averages for April and May range from $215 to $234. Meanwhile, prices in September and October go from $201 to $203, according to 2024 data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. In comparison, prices peak in July with an average rate of $251 a night.

Beyond savings, the shoulder season is also a great time to experience the various islands of Hawaii. On average, this season sees 122,841 fewer visitors per month than the summer peak, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. This could result in attractions becoming more accessible and less populated. Popular attractions during the shoulder season include humpback whale tours in April and May and cultural Aloha festivals in the fall.

While traveling during the shoulder season is one of the best ways to stretch your budget when traveling to Hawaii, it isn't the only strategy. Another easy way to cut costs is by booking travel packages through warehouse clubs or membership programs. For example, Costco Travel often bundles flights, hotels, and car rentals at discounted rates that save travelers hundreds of dollars.

Travelers can also look for accommodations outside main resort areas, where nightly rates may be lower. For example, the Island of O'ahu averages the least expensive nightly rates, according to 2024 data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Many hotels also offer a senior discount, so it's worth spending a little extra time researching. Additionally, there are a number of free activities to do in Hawaii, including scenic hikes and cliff jumping, which can help lower costs for those on a tight budget. With a bit of creativity and smart planning, experiencing the Aloha State can be done frugally without many sacrifices.