A 7 day trip to Hawaii can be a dream vacation, but the costs can add up quickly. Here's a breakdown of how much you can expect to spend on airfare, lodging, food, activities and more for a week in Hawaii.
Airfare
Flying to Hawaii from the mainland US can cost $500-$1,000 roundtrip per person, depending on your departure city, airline, time of year and advance booking.
Try to book at least 2-3 months in advance for the lowest fares. Fares are typically higher in the busy summer travel season.
Search sites like Kayak, Expedia and Google Flights to compare fares across airlines and get price alerts.
Lodging
Hotel prices in Hawaii vary greatly by location, amenities and room type.
Budget hotels can be $100-$200 per night.
Mid-range hotels run $200-$400 per night.
Upscale beachfront resorts are $400+ per night.
Condos, apartments and vacation rentals offer more space and amenities for $150-$500 per night.
Look on sites like VRBO, Airbnb and Booking.com to browse lodging options.
Car Rental
Having a rental car makes exploring the islands much easier.
Compact car rentals in Hawaii average $40-$60 per day.
SUVs and convertibles can cost $75+ per day.
Check for deals on sites like Expedia, Kayak and Costco Travel.
Food
Hawaii offers cuisine from just about everywhere, from $ to $$$$.
Inexpensive options include plate lunch joints, food trucks, & casual local eateries for $10-$15 per meal.
Sit-down restaurants run $15-$40 per entrée.
Groceries from local markets can help you save on breakfast & snacks. Budget $300+ per person for food.
Activities
Popular activities & typical prices for a week in Hawaii:
Snorkel/scuba gear rentals: $25-$75
Surf lessons: $100-$150
Luau show with dinner: $80-$120 per person
Helicopter tour: $200-$500 per person
Whale watching cruise: $50-$100 per person
Hiking in state parks: Free-$30 park entry
Pearl Harbor admission: $30 per person
Research top attractions on each island and book advance tickets when possible.
Other Costs
Budget another $100-$300 per person for other incidentals like:
Souvenirs & gifts
Beach gear like sunscreen, hats, etc.
Tips at restaurants & for guides/drivers
Ground transportation like taxis, shuttle buses
The Hawaii Hotel Tax adds 13.75% to lodging costs.
Total Trip Cost
For a mid-range 7 day Hawaii trip expect to spend $2,000-$3,000 per person, including airfare, lodging, car rental, food and activities.
You can trim costs by choosing budget lodging & dining options.
Going deluxe with 5-star hotels and experiences can run $5,000+ per person.
Traveling in the off-season and looking for package deals can help you save.
5 FAQs about 7 Day Hawaii Trips
1. Which Hawaiian island is best for a 7 day trip?
Oahu and Maui offer the widest variety of attractions and activities for a weeklong trip. Oahu has Waikiki, Pearl Harbor and lively Honolulu while Maui boasts gorgeous beaches, Haleakala and the Road to Hana.
2. Is a week enough time to see Hawaii?
A week is a good amount of time to relax and see the highlights of one Hawaiian island. Trying to island-hop can feel rushed. Focus your 7 days on Oahu, Maui, Kauai or the Big Island for the best experience.
3. What is the cheapest time to go to Hawaii?
Hawaii's peak season when prices are highest runs from mid-December through March and June through August. Visiting in the spring, fall or winter will give you lower airfares and hotel rates.
4. Is it cheaper to book a Hawaii package or separately?
Booking airfare and hotel together as a package deal through sites like Expedia or Apple Vacations can sometimes yield savings over booking individually. Packages with added perks like rental car, meals and activities can offer more value.
5. How much spending money will I need in Hawaii?
Beyond your lodging, car and airfare, budget $100-$150 per person per day in Hawaii for food, activities, transportation and other expenses. Bring more if planning costly adventures like helicopter tours. ATMs are readily available.
Conclusion
With some advance planning, you can plan an amazing 7 day getaway in Hawaii for around $2,000-$3,000 per person. Look for deals on flights and hotels, focus on a single island, and balance splurges on nice dinners and excursions with affordable activities to keep your trip within budget. The memories of a week in paradise are priceless!
