Save Money by Visiting these Landmarks on Your Own

🌴 Exploring Hawaii on a Budget

Many visitors to Hawaii travel on a budget and may not have the means to do every tour or activity offered across the islands. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean missing out on the best sights. Hawaii is filled with public landmarks and attractions that are free or very low cost, and with a rental car—available through Hawaii Discount at great daily and weekly Alamo rates—you can explore them all at your own pace. Below are some of the best budget-friendly places to visit on each island.

🌺 Kauai

Kalalau Lookout & Trail – Enjoy sweeping views of the two-mile-wide Kalalau Valley and the famous Na Pali Coast from Kauai’s highest accessible lookout at 4,000 feet. The valley and beach are only reachable via the challenging 11-mile Kalalau Trail, but the lookout itself requires no admission and is breathtaking.

Queen’s Bath – Located in Princeville, this natural tide pool is surrounded by lava rock and named after Queen Emma. It’s a short 20-minute hike, but conditions can be dangerous and slippery, and swimming is not advised. No admission cost.

Waimea Canyon State Park – Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this stunning 10-mile-long canyon features rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and panoramic lookouts like Waimea Canyon Lookout, Puu Hinahina, Kalalau, and Puu o Kila. Trails include Cliff Trail and Kukui Trail. No admission cost.

Wailua Falls – Famous from “Fantasy Island,” this easily accessible waterfall cascades 80–173 feet into a lush pool below. Trails can be slippery, but the view from the parking area is exceptional. No admission cost.

🌈 Oahu

Banzai Pipeline & North Shore Beaches – Pipeline is one of the world’s most iconic surf breaks, with winter waves reaching 20–40 feet. Even if you’re not surfing, watching the pros is unforgettable. Nearby beaches like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach are equally stunning. No admission cost.

Byodo-In Temple – A peaceful replica of Japan’s 950-year-old Byodo-In, located in Valley of the Temples. Visitors often ring the three-ton brass bell for good luck before entering. Admission is $4 per person.

Diamond Head – This 400,000-year-old volcanic crater features a moderately strenuous .6-mile hike to a WWII bunker and a summit with sweeping views. Admission is $5 per car. Open 6am–6pm.

Halona Blowhole & Beach Cove – Formed by ancient lava tubes, this natural blowhole shoots water up to 30 feet in the air during strong surf. Nearby Halona Beach Cove is famous for its movie scenes and scenic beauty. No admission cost.

🌋 Maui

Haleakala National Park – At 10,023 feet, Haleakala offers sunrise views that feel otherworldly. Reservations are required for sunrise visits without a tour. Landscapes range from volcanic rock gardens to lush waterfalls near Hana. Admission is $10 per car.

Road to Hana – A legendary 65-mile drive featuring 620 curves, 59 bridges, waterfalls, lookouts, and fruit stands. Plan your route in advance and expect 2.5 hours nonstop driving or up to 9 hours with stops. No admission cost.

Iao Valley State Park – Home to the iconic 1,200-foot Iao Needle, this valley is sacred and historically significant. Walk paved paths through one of the wettest places in Hawaii. Admission is $5 per car.

Lahaina Banyan Court Park – The largest banyan tree in the United States, planted in 1873, now spans over 15 connected trunks and 60 feet in height. No admission cost.

🏝️ Big Island

Mauna Kea – Rising 13,803 feet above sea level (and much higher from the seafloor), Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain on Earth by total height. Snow is common in winter, and the summit is sacred in Hawaiian culture. The Onizuka Center offers free nightly stargazing from 6–10pm. No admission cost.

Rainbow Falls – A stunning 80-foot waterfall near Hilo, famous for rainbows that appear on sunny mornings. Legend says a lava cave behind the falls is home to Hina, goddess of the moon. No admission cost.

Volcano National Park – Home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa, this park reveals the raw power of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. Explore lookouts, steam vents, Crater Rim Drive, and the Kilauea Visitor Center. Admission is $30 per car, valid for 7 days.

Waipi’o Valley Lookout – “The Valley of the Kings” offers views of towering cliffs, taro fields, and Hiilawe Falls. A steep trail leads down to a black sand beach for those prepared for the hike. No admission cost.

📝 Final Tips

There are many more free and low-cost landmarks across the islands, and researching ahead helps tailor your trip to your interests. Some popular spots like Pearl Harbor or Hanauma Bay are best visited with an activity provider, even on a budget.

Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year-round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly, especially our top seller Sea Life Park Luau. To ensure your spots, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low-price guarantee.