United States · tool

How much does Big Island (Hawaii) cost?

Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Big Island (Hawaii) trip before you book anything.

Photo by AussieActive on Unsplash

Big Island (Hawaii), United States travel budget

Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.

Budget

$150–$250

per day

Hostels, street food, public transit

Accommodation

$40–$80

Hostel dorms, budget guesthouses, or camping.

Food

$40–$70

Grocery store meals, food trucks, and casual plate lunch spots.

Transport

$30–$50

Rental car is almost essential; budget for gas and basic insurance. Limited public transport outside towns.

Activities

$30–$50

Beaches, hiking in national parks (entrance fee applies), stargazing from Mauna Kea visitor center.

Misc

$10–$20

Souvenirs, sunscreen, small incidentals.

Mid-range

$300–$500

per day

3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis

Accommodation

$120–$250

Comfortable hotels, condos, or well-rated Airbnbs.

Food

$80–$150

Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and mid-range dining experiences.

Transport

$50–$80

Mid-size rental car, covering gas and potentially parking fees.

Activities

$80–$150

Snorkeling tours, volcano tours, coffee farm visits, luaus.

Misc

$20–$40

Modest souvenirs, tips for tours, beach gear rentals.

Luxury

$600–$1200

per day

4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers

Accommodation

$300–$700

Luxury resorts, high-end villas, or premium oceanfront suites.

Food

$150–$300

Fine dining, tasting menus, and premium bar experiences.

Transport

$100–$200

Premium rental vehicle, private transfers, or chauffeured services.

Activities

$150–$300

Private guided tours, helicopter tours, spa treatments, exclusive excursions.

Misc

$50–$100

High-end souvenirs, premium gratuities, personal shopping.

Destination-specific money tips

•Rental cars are a significant expense but nearly essential for exploring the Big Island; book in advance.
•Gas prices can be higher than on the mainland US. Factor this into your daily transport budget.
•While credit cards are accepted widely, always have cash for farmers' markets, small local eateries, and tips in remote areas.
•Tipping is expected for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff, similar to mainland US standards (15-20%).
•Be aware that some remote areas may have limited ATM access, so plan accordingly.

Plan the rest of your Big Island (Hawaii) trip

Generate itinerary →Best time to visit Packing list

Trip budgets elsewhere

Trip budgets for similar destinations

Honolulu →Maui →Auckland →Sydney →Cape Town →Cape Cod →