Budget Traveler Guide: Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii

In the age of COVID-19, many of our finances have been impacted. Despite the pandemic and economic downturn, we should not stop living. I, before COVID-19, made a commitment to experience life and not just envision it like I’ve had the last decade. So I decided to prioritize travelling more. Now I’m not “ballin, ballin” but made a commitment to hold myself accountable to my personal goal of adventure. So to comeback all of the barriers in my mind (i.e. finances, COVID-19, travel restrictions) I decided on the furthest domestic location possible: Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii.

KimAllNaturelle (Writer) at Holano Blowhole in Oahu, Honolulu, HI

I spent 5 glorious full days in Hawaii this Spring and man… Why have I never travelled solo before?! I will never go three years without a proper vacation (i.e. without familial responsibility present) ever again! I had a blast for only $1,500 (lodging, airfare, food, transportation & excursions included). That was a price I was willing to pay to truly experience the beautiful island on my terms.

5 Things to Do in Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii

Waimea Valley Botanical Gardens & Waterfall Pool: If you are a nature buff like me, this is a win-win trip for only $20-$40. Entrance fee is $20 and roundtrip tram ride (optional) through the Botanical Garden is only $20. The pool is beyond gorgeous and you’ll be given a free, mandatory life jacket to use. I suggest spending the whole day there! There is a restaurant and bar as well.

Tackle A Fear (Scuba Diving): There are many companies you could book for scuba experience. I personally booked Try Scuba Diving For Beginners ($79) via AirBnB’s Experiences because I am not an effective swimmer and always hear those damn violens from Titanic when submerged underwater. I had a blast scuba diving and legit could have fallen asleep underwater because of how calming it was. 90 minutes of pure bliss!

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Do a Circle Island Tour: There’s awesome food, tons of free beaches, beautiful scenery and retail stores. Be sure to try Matsumoto Shave Ice ($4). It was so delicious. Check out Turtle Beach, try some good Poke at Foodland, eat at Fumi's Kahuku Shrimp, take surf lessons at the various beaches.

Experience the Polynesian culture. You can visit the Polynesian Culture Center and enjoy shows, eat at a luau, and learn the rich history of Hawaii. This can cost anywhere between $89-160 depending on the experience you want.

Just vibe on the beach. I stayed in Waikiki which was really packed. So to get away from people (during COVID-19 and really because I’m so introverted) I enjoyed the beach access via the Magic Lagoon Island. There’s a large canopied park area with a picnic table right in front of the ocean. It’s perfect to spend the day.

Book that flight and go! Don’t you dare think about the cost. Start saving towards your trip now. Need some saving tips read my Fun is a Budgeting Priority article for some tips. You deserve a real vacation!

Want to visit Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii? Have questions? Comment below.