Big Island on a Budget: Inexpensive Family-Friendly Activities

It’s no secret that a trip to Hawaiʻi can seriously rack up the bill. After all, it pays to spend time in paradise! From dining decisions to pricey attractions, an island vacation can bring up some serious questions about the best way to spend your savings.

This Week Hawaii is making it easy for you to experience paradise on a budget. Read on for popular things to do on the Big Island for not a lot of cash. 

Sample Kona Coffee on a farm tour – The Big Island is known for its rich history, gorgeous landscapes and, of course, coffee! Kona coffee, for which the region is famed, is grown in north and south Kona at a variety of plantations and farms. This unique, strong blend varies from farm to farm, yet the essence of Kona coffee is beloved by coffee fanatics everywhere. There are a variety of coffee farms around the Big Island offering walking tours of coffee fields and production facilities at a reasonable price. Tourgoers can even indulge in delicious samples, hands-on activities and a visit to the many gift shops! Popular farms in Kailua-Kona include Greenwell Farms and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm. PC: HTA / Tor Johnson.

Tour Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park – Volcanoes are a majestic natural creation to behold, particularly on the Big Island. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are active volcanoes that continue to mold and transform the Big Island’s landscape, and you can observe the impact of powerful volcanic eruptions at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Bask in the sights during the 11-mile Crater Rim Drive, or explore the park’s many sights during a day or wilderness hike. Entrance fees are inexpensive, and the National Park Service even designates certain days throughout the year as “Fee Free!” PC: NPS Photo / Janice Wei.

NOTE: Due to unstable volcanic activity, much of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park remains closed to the public indefinitely. However, the park’s Kahuku Unit (about an hour south of the main entrance) is currently open and welcoming visitors! 

Visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden – Known as the “Garden in a Valley on the Ocean,” the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is situated along the beautiful Hāmākua Coast. Spanning over 40 acres of lush forestry, waterfalls and valleys, the Garden boasts over 2,000 species from more than 125 families, creating a natural greenhouse for the flourishing of indigenous and endangered species. Admission is only $18/adults, $5/children (6-16) and free for children under six. PC: HTA / Daeja Fallas.

We know planning a trip to Hawaiʻi is an investment—This Week Hawaii wants you to make the most of your money! Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a memorable vacation in paradise. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our blog to learn more about our favorite places to explore!