There is No Surprise that Hawaii is very expensive!! I will say its most expensive destination of the United States after Alaska! If you’re planning a trip to the island of Oahu, you’ may already realized this. But the good news is, there are plenty of Free and Cheap things to do in Oahu without breaking the Bank!
If you’re traveling to Hawaii, you can expect to pay a little more on flights, hotels, food, and activities. During my visit to Oahu, I was really shocked to see the high prices of everything: from car rentals, breakfast at restaurants, hotel parking etc, everything was insane! So I made a mission to see as much as possible without shelling lot of money! And you may also want to do the same!
From stunning beaches, beautiful hiking views from top, scenic drives along the north shore, there are so many amazing cheap things to do in Oahu. This free budget friendly places are all about enjoying Oahu without spending lot of money! So, be ready to experience OAHU on Budget.
In this post, I’ll cover tons of free things to do in Oahu, including some cheap things to do as well! So keep reading if you are planning a trip to Oahu and figuring out how to save money while making most of your budget!
But before sharing more information, let me give you overview of important things to know before planning your trip to Island of Oahu in Hawaii.
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Renting a Car on Oahu
The island of Oahu is quite large and spread out. Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii State which is in Oahu. And the main area of Honolulu is Waikiki beach side. But this Post includes places to visit from all over the island including the North Shore, so you will need to rent a car! And this is the best option to explore the Hawaiian Islands.
I highly recommend using Discover Cars. They allow you to compare prices across all of the major rental car companies. Plus, they have a great cancellation policy (typically free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance) and price match! Check the rates here.
Travel Tips to Save Money on Oahu
Before sharing the free things to do in Oahu, let me first share with you some money saving hacks for your next trip to Oahu.
First, if want to save money during your visit to Hawaii, I recommend to avoid the peak season. In Hawaii, this typically means the winter months, which are the busiest especially around December holidays! In addition, summer in Hawaii can be busy due to holidays in the USA.
To save money, I recommend to visit between March to May or from September to November to avoid crowds and high prices of stay. I particularly visited in September and it was perfect weather and price wise! During Peak season, you can expect high hotel prices and more people!
The second most money saving hack for Oahu is to avoid staying in the Waikiki area. Waikiki is the most popular neighborhood on Oahu, and maybe in the entire Hawaiian Island chain. But it is the most expensive place to stay on the island.
You’ll see famous hotels like the Royal Hawaiian Hotel,Hilton Hawaiian Village, and Moana Surfrider in Waikiki. They are beautiful but will cost you a fortune!
Instead of Stay you can have Drinks at Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Apart from hotel Prices, everything is higher in this area. It includes food, parking, shopping, etc. If you are a budget traveler, I recommend staying in a less touristy area of Oahu like North Shore or away from Waikiki in Downtown Honolulu. You can also book vacation rentals instead of Hotels to save money.
If we speak about food, its at higher end at most of the places as everything get imported from the mainland USA. But still there are so many food trucks all over the island that serves delicious food at cheaper rates.
Pro Tip: Make sure to check Parking fees at your hotel/resort when you book your stay. Parking fees are exorbitant in Hawaii. This can easily break your budget!
So, let’s get deep dive into free and cheap things to do in Oahu.
List of Free Things to Do In Oahu (Including Cheap Things!)
I will divide this post different area of Oahu, so you can easily refer it when you plan your trip.
Free and Cheap Things to Do in Oahu: Waikiki Area
Waikiki is the most popular area of Oahu, and also the most pricey! If you’re staying in the Waikiki area, you’ll experience all the incredible free things to do in the area. Here are best free things to do in Oahu.
Hit the Beach
No trip to Hawaii is complete without some beach time, and with over 112 miles of stunning coastline, Oahu offers a wide variety of awesome beaches to choose from! But Waikiki is one of the best beaches on the island and its totally free!
I loved walking along the Waikiki Beach, watching sunset and seeing surfers. This is one of the best places for people watching. You can also go for Sunset Cruises with a drink in your hand.
The main Waikiki Beach right in front of the main hotels where you’ll see plenty of people swimming. However, if you continue south, you will find Kuhio Beach. This beach has a long seawall in front of it that protects it from the wave. This creates a perfect, calm swimming area.
Go Surfing
While you’re at the Waikiki beach, another classic activity to do in Oahu is to go surfing! Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to surf, as the waves are modest year-round, even in winter. It’s the perfect spot for beginners!
Taking a surf lesson definitely doesn’t make the list of cheap things to do in Oahu, because its very expensive activity. Typically lessons cost you from $100 to $200. However, you can rent a surfboard for cheap and take to the waves yourself!
If surfing isn’t your thing, you can also rent a standup paddle board (SUP) for $20 per hour, then $10 for each additional hour! This makes it cheap things to do in Oahu.
Hike to Waterfall
Another Popular things to do in Oahu you can’t miss is hiking to a waterfall! And good news is, there is a gorgeous waterfall just outside of the Waikiki are: Manoa Falls.
Hiking to the Manoa Falls is completely free. However, you’ll need to pay $7 Parking fees to park your car in the lot at the trailhead. However, you can park a little further away in a neighborhood for free.
This hike is moderately easy and has a 1.7-mile RT Trail that should take around an hour to complete. The trail is open year-round, but the waterfall will be most impressive during rainy season! It’s a great Oahu hike that is easy and is good for the whole family.
Views from Tantalus lookout
Tantalus Lookout is my favorite spot on Oahu for catching a breathtaking views especially at sunset. From this scenic overlook, you get incredible views of the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head Crater.
The parking lot is small, so be sure to arrive early, especially when you visit at sunset. Just remember, the park closes promptly at 7:45 PM, so make sure to head out before the gate locks!
Visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial
You can’t miss visiting Pearl Harbor when in Oahu. And it’s completyely free to visit. The memorial is located just 20 minutes from Waikiki.
Pearl Harbor is a top historical site honoring the 1941 attack that led the U.S. into World War II. It’s one of Hawaii’s top attractions, with over a million visitors each year. The USS Arizona Memorial, where many lives were lost, is the main draw for visitors. There are several other points of interest on the site including museum.
There’s no entry fee for the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and no ticket is required to see the museums. However, to see the USS Arizona Memorial (via a short boat ride), you can wait in the free standby line or secure a reservation for $1 in advance. Anyway, this is one of the best free things to do in Oahu that will give you glimpse of the history!
Watch the Free Fireworks
You don’t need to wait for any festivals to enjoy the fireworks in Hawaii! Every Friday, at 7:45 PM, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort hosts a free, public firework show.
It can be an uforgettable evening, while watching the sunset at waikiki beach with the spectacular display of fireworks in the end.
Watch the Free Hula Show
One of the best free things to do in Oahu is watching authentic Hawaiian Hula Show. Unlike Luau, this is COMPLETELY FREE. I will say you shouldn’t miss this activity from your Oahu list.
You can enjoy authentic Hawaiian music and hula by Hawaii’s finest Halau Hula (dance troupes) and Hawaiian performers right at the Kuhio Beach, just beside the Waikiki Beach.
The show organizes every Saturdays and 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month(weather-permitting), at sunset from 6:30 PM -7:30 PM at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound in Waikiki beach side on Kalakua Avenue(near the Duke Duke Kahanamoku statue).
With blending music, storytelling and traditional instruments like the rattle gourd, this show showcases world-class hula in an incredible oceanfront setting, and its absolutely FREE!
Watch Sunset from Makapu’u Lighthouse
This is one of my most favorite hike in the OAHU. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is a 2.5-mile RT, moderate trail that ffers stunning views of one of the southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline.
The hike is a moderately challenging route with a paved walkway, making it a good option for children too. It takes 1.5 hrs to finish the trail but the sunset views from here are breathtaking.
Hike the Diamond Head Crater
If you’re into hiking, there are some great options just outside of the Waikiki area. Diamond Head State Monument is the most famous hike in Oahu. This volcanic crater is 10 minutes drive from South of Waikiki, and hiking to the top offers iconic views of the Waikiki coastline, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean.
The trail is just 1.6 miles RT with jaw dropping views of Waikiki from the top! The hike is moderate, so it’s perfect for beginners, and you can complete it just one hour. Along the way, you’ll get a little history and geology lesson.
You’ll need advance Reservations to enter the State Monument, which can be made up to 30 days in advance. It costs $5 per person to enter (free for 3 and under), plus $10 per vehicle. Compared to other activities on Oahu, this is the cheap things to do in Oahu that won’t break the bank!
Find the Street Arts in the City
If you’re in Honolulu, must check out the Kaka’ako neighborhood, is known for its beautiful murals and is a popular destination for art lovers. Located just 20 minutes from Waikiki, Kaka’ako, a former industrial area, has transformed into a vibrant arts district with large-scale murals adorning buildings and walls.
The street arts mostly depicts Hawaiian culture and nature. If you walk around the area, don’t forget to visit the beautiful cafes in the area.
Go for Window Shopping
One of the best parts about visiting Waikiki is its many shopping areas! Even if you don’t buy anything, this can be a great free thing to do in Oahu! Just strolling around the area will give you pleasant experience.
Check the Royal Hawaiian Center, right in the heart of Waikiki. There are more than 100 stores, from designer boutiques to local spots, like the Honolulu Cookie Company, Crazy Shirts, and Island Vintage Coffee! It is perfect place to buy local souvenirs.
My favorite is International Marketplace, a global shopping hub with vibrant stalls and artisanal treasures. This outdoor shopping area is a great place to visit in Oahu.You might even stumble upon live entertainment or a free hula show as you wander the Mall!
Lastly, check out the Ala Moana Shoppping center(Hawaii’s largest shopping center). It is located right outside Waikiki, and there is a trolley between the shopping center and several spots in Waikiki. The open-air shopping oasis is open daily and has over 190 stores!
Free Things to do In Oahu North Shore
Next, let’s talk about all the free things to do on the North Shore of Oahu! North Shore is very beautiful and one of my personal favorite area of Oahu. There is more natural beauty with stunning shore line and away from the crowd! Here you’ll feel true authentic Hawaii!
Watch the Pro Surfers at Banzai Pipeline
Probably one of the most iconic thing to do on the North Shore is watch Pro surfing. North Shore waves are no joke, especially in the winter months! In fact, this is where the World Championships of Surfing are held in December, and the waves are just insane.
Plus, watching the surfers is totally free! There are a couple different spots along the North Shore to go but the Banzai Pipeline(Ehukai Beach Park) is most famous on the North Shore. It offers a thrilling experience just watching the pro surfers! You will surely find surfers here year round, and it’s free!
The best time to visit is between November to March when the waves reach up to 30 feet. In late January, the Billabong Pro Pipeline takes place here, attracting top surfers from around the world!
Snorkel at Shark’s Cove
The name is delusional and don’t worry Shark’s don’t live here😉! Shark’s Cove is one of the best Snorkeling Spot in Oahu. If you have your own snorkel gear, snorkeling is one of the best free things to do in Oahu! And it is less crowded than Hanauma Bay (minus the admission fees).
From approximately May through September, the water is usually calm here, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. There are lots of rock formations and vibrant marine life here.You can expect to see colorful fishes, eels, and maybe even a turtle or two!
See the Hawaiian Sea Turtles at Laniakea Beach
If you’re in Oahu, seeing Hawaiian Green Sea turtle is must! Laniakea Beach on North Shore Oahu is a popular hangout for these intriguing creatures, and so popular that beach is popularly Known as Turtle Beach. It’s completely free to watch these little endangered creatures on the beach!
The best time for seeing turtles is during the summer when the water is calm, from May through September would be ideal. Also, you can see the turtles early in the morning or at sunset, but they often come out throughout the day too. So, keep your eyes on these endangered species.
There are the rules and regulations to follow when you encounter a sea turtle in Hawaii. You must remain at least 10 feet away from sea turtles, both on land and in the water. Do not touch, chase, or feed the turtles or don’t disturb them any way! Basically, just respect their space and their peace. They’re at Laniakea Beach for a reason like to eat, rest, or possibly even lay eggs. They’re not there for your entertainment or to hang out with you. Just see them from safe Distance!
Have Dole Whip at Dole Plantation
One of the most amazing free things to do in Oahu is visiting Pineapple Plantation. Dole Plantation is one of the most famous in Hawaii and for a reason! And it’s free to explore the Plantation. I highly recommend making a stop for the Dole Whip here. Trust me, it’s worth every penny!
Visiting Plantation is free but if you want to shell out more money, there are tons of activities for you and children!
Enjoy delicious eats from Food Trucks
Another very popular and cheap thing to do in Oahu at North Shore is to hit the food trucks. North Shore is famous for some iconic food trucks in the Haleiwa neighborhood, including Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, the Sunrise Shack, and Pupukea Grill. All of these offer incredible food that won’t break the bank! But there might not be more vegeterian friendly options!
But I loved visiting Hale’iwa Bowls for Acai Bowls and Waiahole Poi Factory for vegeterian Hawaiian food and Icecream.
Have Shaved Ice
You can’t leave Oahu or Hawaii without trying the Shave Ice. One of the most famous place in Oahu is Matsumoto Shave Ice. This little shop, which opened in the ’50s, has become an iconic spot on the North Shore. Plus, it’s extremely cheap! You can get a large shaved ice for less than $5, and the flavors are incredible!
Other famous spots you can try in Waikiki are Waiola Shave Ice and Monsarrat Shave Ice.
Free Things to do in Oahu: Kailua Area
If you are visiting Oahu, you absolutely must check out the other areas of the Island. I fell in love with the Kailua area on the southeast side of the island when I visited. Plus, there’s tons of cheap and free things to do in this area! The beaches are absolutely stunning here.
Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple in Kailua feels like stepping into a scene of Japan right in Hawaii! It’s a smaller replica of the historic temple in Uji, Japan, built in 1968 to honor the first Japanese immigrants.
While not free, it’s only $5 for admission, still very cheap for the tranquil beauty and history you’ll experience! You can spend 30-40 minutes here, soak in the peaceful surroundings, admiring the koi ponds, and marveling at the temple’s architecture. It’s a truly unique way to experience a cultural gem on Oahu!
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
Once you’ve soaked in the tranquility of the Byodo-In Temple, head just 20 minutes south to the breathtaking Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. Probably you may have see this garden as famous Instagram Spot in Oahu. The entracne of the garden is very iconic and picturesque spot.
Nestled in a lush rainforest, this paradise is framed by majestic mountain ranges, often enhanced by a dreamy mist that adds the drama. With so many trails, serene lakes, and plants from tropical regions around the globe, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. This is totally one of the best free things to do in Oahu.
Relax on the Beach
While Waikiki Beach is most popular in Oahu but there are other amazing beaches on the island, which are equally stunning. I highly recommend going to at least one beach over here to experience it. Also, you will find way less people here, mostly locals.
The most popular beaches on this side of the island are Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach.
Lanikai Beach is stunning, with clear turquoise water and soft white sand. Kailua Beach Park is just up the road from Lanikai Beach and is another great (and free) place to visit.
Kailua Beach is a bit bigger than Lanikai. It also has amenities like bathrooms, showers, etc. There is also a dedicated parking lot at Kailua Beach, so it’s easier to access! Lastly, Kailua Beach has no coral so it’s great for swimming but not so great for snorkeling like Lanikai.
Go for Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is one of the best hikes on Oahu and offers some of the most breathtaking views! If you’re an early bird, I highly recommend tackling it at sunrise. The 1.8-mile hike is moderate, but totally worth it when you reach the top and get to climb on the military bunkers for that perfect view.
While the the hike is worth the views, Parking can be tricky. Finding parking along the streets is your best bet or you can park at the lanikai beach.
Visit the Kailua Farmer’s Market
Last but not least, another free thing to do on Oahu is to hit the Kailua Farmers’ Market. This market is a great way to meet the the locals and have a more authentic experience. The market is open on Thursdays from 4 PM to 7 PM and totally free!
At the market, you can find tons of wonderful artists and local growers. There’s donuts, burgers, popcorn, empanadas, pizza, noodles, and everything in between!
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Oahu
Make sure to book your stay as far in advance as you can in order to get the most affordable rates. Contrary to popular belief there are some budget places to stay in Oahu. It’s just going to depend on the time of year you go.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are tons of free things to do in Oahu. In fact, some of the top things to do are very cheap! Whether you’re chasing stunning views, white sandy beaches, learning history or snorkeling with sea turtles, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner.
I hope this guide inspires you to explore the beauty of Oahu without breaking the bank! But at the same time I also recommend splurging on one or two activities of your interest on your Oahu trip.
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