SCP Hilo Hotel
If you are looking for an economical accommodation in a good location on the Big Island, the Hilo Seaside Hotel may be the place for you.
Big Island on a Budget: How to Save on Lodging
Big Island Guide
Travel Guide
Big Island on a Budget: How to Save on Lodging
As with most destinations in Hawaii, taking into account the nightly cost of your travels and learning how to save on lodging is important. Thankfully, the Big Island has a wide variety of possible lodging options for you to consider. With over 4,000 square miles of largely undeveloped natural beauty, the Big Island could easily take two full weeks of exploration and adventure. Finding a better price on lodging might allow you to stay longer and explore more. If you’re on a tight budget and want to make the most of your trip to the Island of Hawaii, you might want to take a look at the following options:
Option 1: Budget Motels
A tried and true staple of American travel, simply choosing a clean, comfortable room may be exactly what your vacation preferences (and your wallet) will require. Scattered among the winding roadways and nestled throughout the various towns on the Big Island, a low-cost motel or hotel room booked for the duration of your stay may be exactly what the doctor ordered. Here are a few of our favorites with a general price range:
Volcano Inn
9-3820 Old Volcano Road
Volcano, HI 96785
(808) 967-7773
Website
Avg. low price: $99 per night
SCP Hilo Hotel
126 Banyan Way
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 935-0821
Website
Avg. low price: $150 per night
Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
71 Banyan Drive
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
(877) 367-1912
Website
Avg. low price: $175 per night
Kona Tiki Hotel
75-5968 Alii Drive
Kailua-Kona, HI
(808) 329-1425
Website
Avg. low price: $199 per night
Option 2: Vacation Rentals
Vacation Rentals have revolutionized travel lodging and for good reason: you’ll often get more for your money than what a hotel or motel can offer. Everything from a private room to an expansive estate rental are available on the Big Island through VRBO’s service, ensuring you’ll find something right for you and your guests no matter your financial situation. Prices Range quite a bit depending on amenities, but there are many good options available for $100 – $150 per night. Check Out Big Island VRBO rentals to find something priced right for a Hawaii adventure.
Option 3: Camping
While camping on the Big Island won’t always provide the beachfront experience you may be imagining, there are plenty of clean, well-patrolled camping sites throughout the island that would suit most outdoor enthusiast. Some offer easy road access for quick departures on your way to a day-long adventure; others require some hiking before you reach the campsite. Camping on the Big Island is in designated camp sites by permit only so make sure to plan ahead. There is a per person of per shelter fee for non-residents at state and county sites. The fees typically range from $20 – $80 depending on the lodging options you choose.
It’s not safe or advisable to camp outside of designated campgrounds on the Big Island and it is illegal to do so on state or private property. This warning is offered, not to rain on your camping plans, but to keep you safe. It is easy to accidentally wander onto private property, stray into an unsafe area, or get involved in unnecessary disputes if you camp outside of designated areas. So, if you choose to rough it, these campgrounds are a good bet:
Namakanipaio Campground in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Operated by Hawai’i Volcanoes Lodge Company
808-756-9625
Kohanaiki Beach Park
Operated by the County of Hawaii – camping permit required
The Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
4-person A-frame shelters
Apply for a Camping Permit Here
