How Much Is A Hotel Room In Hawaii? Prices, Tips And Recommendations

Looking for a Hawaiian vacation but worried about the hotel costs? With flight and activities, lodging can be one of the biggest expenses for travelers headed to the islands.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Average hotel room prices in Hawaii range from $200 to $400 per night depending on the island, season, and hotel class. Luxury resorts can cost $500+ per night.

In this comprehensive guide we’ll break down the average hotel prices on various Hawaiian islands, best budget lodging options, when to find deals based on high and low seasons, and tips to save money on your Hawaii hotel stay.

Average Hotel Room Rates and Prices in Hawaii

Oahu Hotel Prices

As the most populated Hawaiian island, Oahu hotels range from $150 to $800 per night, with luxury resorts like Hilton Hawaiian Village averaging around $379/night. More affordable hotels under $200/night can be found away from famous Waikiki Beach.

For deals, visit Oahu during shoulder seasons like April-May and September-October.

Maui Hotel Prices

Known for its stunning beaches and landscapes, hotel rates in Maui reflect its popularity. Expect to pay $250-$650/night for typical hotels, while high-end resorts average $500-$1000+. Look for better rates in Kīhei, Lahaina or Wailuku to save vs the pricier Kaʻanapali and Wailea districts.

Early spring and fall have cheaper options.

Kauai Hotel Prices

The “Garden Isle” appeals to nature lovers, with rainforests, canyons and Napali Coast drawing visitors. Mid-range Kauai hotels run $200-$400/night generally, while luxury options surpass $1000. Poipu and Princeville offer most lodgings.

Visit in April-May or September-October for lowest rates averaging $175-$325/night.

Big Island Hawaii Hotel Prices

As Hawaii’s largest island, the Big Island offers diverse landscapes from black sand beaches to Volcanoes National Park. Accommodation pricing varies greatly, with average hotel rates ranging $150-$500 per night. Luxury lodges can cost $700+ near Kohala Coast.

For deals under $250/night, look to Kailua-Kona or Hilo away from resorts.

Factors Impacting Hotel Rates in Hawaii

Hawaii hotel pricing fluctuates based on high vs shoulder tourist seasons, room views, resort amenities, island location and proximity to top attractions. Expect peak rates from mid-December through March and June-August, while April-May and September-November have better deals.

Oceanfront rooms also cost more. Consider condos or vacation rentals to save on high hotel expenses.

Best Budget Hotels and Affordable Lodging in Hawaii

Hostels in Hawaii

Hawaii has a variety of affordable hostels that offer dorm-style lodging and shared bathrooms for budget travelers. Popular hostel chains like Hostelworld and Hostelling International have locations on the major islands.

Private single or double rooms with air conditioning are also available at most hostels for about $75-100 per night. The social atmosphere and common kitchens at Hawaii hostels allow travelers to save money by cooking some meals.

Condos and Vacation Rentals

Booking a Hawaii condo rental through sites like VRBO or Airbnb offers spacious lodging with home amenities often at lower prices than hotels. Condos frequently include full kitchens, laundry machines, and living areas which are ideal for families or groups.

The locations of condo communities vary from beachfront resort-style to local neighborhood settings. Nightly rates for 1-3 bedroom condos generally range from $100-300 depending on the location, size, views and amenities.

Affordable Hawaii Hotel Chains

Large hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton have mid-range branded properties across Hawaii islands with nightly rates between $150-300. These affordable Hawaii hotels provide comfortable double rooms, convenient on-site restaurants and pools, with some partial ocean views.

Examples include Courtyard Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn. Outrigger Hotels has a range of condo resorts and affordable hotel options in premier locations like Waikiki and Ko Olina with nightly room rates starting around $180.

Hiking Cabins and Cottages

Rustic backcountry accommodations are available near Hawaii’s famous hiking trails for just $80-100 per night. The State Parks system operates simple cabins along the Kalalau trail and in Waipio Valley that have shared bathrooms and allow a maximum 2-5 guests. Bring your own linens, food, and water.

Private hiking cottages and eco-lodges can also be booked near trails on Kauai, Maui, and Big Island through vacation rental platforms.

High and Low Season for Hotel Prices in Hawaii

High Season Hotel Rates

Hawaii’s high season for hotels runs from mid-December through March and June through August. During these peak tourism times, hotel rates are at their highest due to increased demand. Expect to pay 25-50% more for hotel rooms compared to other times of the year.

Popular luxury hotels like the Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki often charge $500+ per night during the holidays and summer.

Low Season Hotel Discounts

The best deals on Hawaii hotels can be found during the off-peak seasons of April-May and September-mid December. Hotel rates can be up to 40% cheaper compared to high season. For example, some nice beachfront hotels in Maui that go for $400/night in the summer can be booked for under $250/night in September.

The only exception is late April, when room rates spike during the popular Merrie Monarch Festival.

Best Times to Book Hawaii Hotels

Here are the optimal times to book a Hawaii hotel for the lowest rates:

• Early December – Last minute deals before the Christmas/New Year’s rush.
• January-February – Lowest demand after the holidays.
• May and September-October – Spring and fall shoulder seasons.
• At least 2 months in advance for peak summer dates to lock in rates.

Using hotel price tracking sites like Kayak and Hotels.com can help you find and monitor rate drops during low season.

Tips for Saving Money on Hawaii Hotels

Choose a Less Expensive Area

The lush island of Maui is one of the world’s most sought-after vacation havens with jaw-dropping scenery and activities galore, but lodging prices reflect the high demand. Opt for a less expensive though no less beautiful area like lush and tranquil Hana, bohemian Paia, or remote Kaanapali for rates that won’t empty your wallet too fast.

Travel Mid-Week

Aim to arrive and depart on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays for the lowest rates. Fridays and Saturdays nearly always carry premium pricing, along with added minimum night requirements. Saving a bundle getting there midweek means you can indulge in that fancy resort umbrella drink without totally blowing the budget.

Book Room Only Without Package

It’s tempting to opt for a Hawaiian hotel package bundling lodging, meals and activities. But you may find prices substantially lower booking just accommodations, then adding on meal plans or activities à la carte later. Meal plan savings mean splurging on a classy restaurant impossible back home. 😊

Earn Hotel Loyalty Points

If you’ll be visiting Hawaii hotels annually or regularly, sign up for free loyalty programs. You can earn substantial points redeemable for free night certificates, room upgrades, restaurant credits and more over time. Loyalty perks let you enjoy Hawaiian luxury hotels without paying full price.

Check programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, IHG One Rewards and others.

Consider an All-Inclusive Resort

All-inclusive Hawaii hotels bundle lodging, dining, and activities for one nightly rate. This locks in total trip costs up front. Though rates seem high, analyses show all-inclusives average 40% savings over paying individually.

Conclusion

As one of the top tourist destinations in the U.S., Hawaii hotel rates can vary greatly across seasons, islands, and types of accommodations. By choosing wisely based on your budget and timing, you can find quality Hawaii hotel rooms ranging from affordable dorms and condos under $100 per night up to lavish oceanfront resorts exceeding $800 per night.

Use the tips in this guide on the best hotel deals by season, recommendations for cheaper islands and lodging, and ways to save through hotel loyalty programs and more. This will help set expectations on price and ensure you find Hawaii accommodations matching your ideal vacation budget.

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