Do I need cash in Hawaii?

It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation: a mix of cash, credit cards, and traveler's checks. You should also exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel before you leave home, or withdraw money upon arrival at an airport ATM.



In 2026, Hawaii is overwhelmingly a "Digital Payment" economy, and you can use a credit card or mobile wallet (Apple/Google Pay) for 99% of your expenses, from high-end resorts to local ABC stores. However, carrying a small amount of cash ($50–$100 in small bills) is a peer-recommended "high-value" essential for three specific reasons: Tipping, Farmers Markets, and Food Trucks. If you are heading to a local "Plate Lunch" spot in Hilo or a roadside fruit stand on the Road to Hana, they may have a "Cash Only" policy or a $10 minimum for cards. Additionally, tipping your valet, bellhop, or "Manta Ray" dive guide is much easier and more appreciated in physical cash. A peer-to-peer "win" for 2026: while you don't need a "thick wallet," having a few $5 bills ensures you can support the local "mom-and-pop" businesses and provide immediate gratitude for high-value service during your island adventure.

People Also Ask

The US Dollar is the official currency used in Hawaii. Major credit cards and traveller's cheques are widely accepted, plus there are plenty of ATMs and currency exchange stores at the resorts, shopping centres and throughout each of the islands.

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Most establishments on Oahu–particularly in tourist areas–accept all major credit and debit cards. Nonetheless, having a small amount of cash on hand can be extremely useful. To avoid ATM withdrawal fees, bring cash with you from home.

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With that in mind, how much do you need to budget to visit Hawaii? Well, in general, you're going to want an average of about $4000 per week, depending on where you're staying and which island you're visiting on your Hawaii vacation.

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Take cash. While we mostly operate in a cashless society, you'll need cash in Waikiki. Taxi drivers, for instance, prefer cash over cards. Ashlee says small notes are handy for tipping porters, (US$1-US$2 per bag), housekeeping staff (US$1-$2 a day), bar staff (US$1-US$2 per drink) and guides/drivers (US$5-US$10).

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Although the following figures are average estimates on what you might spend on necessities and fun in Hawaii, they may help you when planning your vacation budget: Breakfast and lunch: $8 to $16 per person. Dinner: $14 to $25 per person.

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Expect sticker shock. Food is very expensive in Hawaii, since most of it is imported from the mainland.

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For instance, 20–25% tips are the norm in restaurants. Many workers in Hawaii are paid less than minimum wage with tips factored into their regular pay similar to the US mainland. It can be considered rude to fail to tip or under tip your host or hostess.

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RESTRICTED OR PROHIBITED ITEMS:
  • Pineapple and bromeliad plants and fruits.
  • Passion fruit plants and seeds.
  • Cruciferous root vegetables (radish, turnip, daikon, horseradish, rutabaga)
  • Corn on the cob.
  • Citrus and pulpy fruits from Florida & Puerto Rico.
  • Taro and dasheen.
  • Coconuts.


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Taxis. Taxis are an affordable and efficient way of getting around, but they tend to run as a cash-only business. A good rule of thumb is to tip fifteen percent of the final bill for a smooth and courteous ride, or you can tell the driver to “keep the change” if that's easier.

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Pro tip: Tip everyone: While most travelers know to tip a bellman or valet, few leave anything for the front-desk agent—despite their enormous power to influence the quality of your stay. “The front desk isn't a tipped position, so when you do tip, it makes them beholden to you,” Tomsky said.

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Domestic travel If you are flying to Hawai'i within the United States, you only need a valid government photo ID. A list of accepted forms of ID can be found on the TSA website.

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Yes, it is safe to drink and use tap water on the island of O?ahu including in Waikiki. The Board of Water Supply in Hawai?i works in conjunction with State and Federal agencies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Hawai?i State Department of Health, to ensure the water in Hawai?i is safe to drink.

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These are the clothing basics for what to pack for Hawaii – weeklong vacation:
  • Swimsuits (2)
  • Swimsuit cover ups (2)
  • Outfits for tours (like shorts and a top or a sundress) (1-2)
  • Nicer outfit/dress for fancy dinners or night out in Honolulu (1-2)
  • Beach sandals.
  • Water shoes.


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Top 10 Foods & Drinks You Must Try in Hawaii
  • Poke. Perennially beloved by locals and visitors alike, poke is a rich dish full of flavorful, simple ingredients. ...
  • Poi. Taro root, a vegetable similar to sweet potato, forms the basis of this classic side dish. ...
  • Lomi Lomi Salmon. ...
  • Kalua Pua'a. ...
  • Lau Lau. ...
  • Haupia. ...
  • Pipi Kalua. ...
  • Loco Moco.


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Can You Travel to Hawaii Without a Passport? U.S. Citizens flying to Hawaii don't need a passport since Hawaii is part of the United States, but they must present a government-issued photo I.D. and ticket.

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