Is Waikiki Beach expensive?

Filled with highrise hotels and apartments, this is a favorite vacation spot for many tourists coming to the Hawaiian Islands. There is no denying that Waikiki is an expensive destination. With hotel rooms averaging from $250-320/night and expensive food costs, this is not a cheap destination.



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But these three issues — high taxes, excessive land-use and zoning regulations, and the federal Jones Act — are some of the most important in explaining why Hawaii's cost of living is so high.

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All beaches in Hawai?i are public and free, so grab a chair, towel, and book and bounce around from beach to beach. Waikiki Beach (shown below) is but one of many of the amazing white-sand beaches on O?ahu.

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For a one week trip, that means you'll spend anywhere from $350 to $1000 per week. Just remember that if you do choose to get a car rental in Hawaii, you'll need to be aware of parking fees. Parking fees around the cities cost just a few dollars per hour.

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The Waikiki Beach Walk is an amazing pathway along the beautiful Waikiki Beach. There are many resorts, eateries and fun things to do along this walk. It is lovely day or night. Very safe to walk in the evening.

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No alcohol on the beach whether it's in a glass container or not. If by canopy you mean a tall pop up one that'd be a no. Some people do it on other beaches around the island (and usually back on the grassy areas bordering the beach, not in the sand itself).

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While Waikiki Beach is famous for its beauty and surfing, it got a little boost from other famous icons in the early 1900s. Shortly after the first hotels were built on the beach, celebrities such as Bing Crosby, Amelia Earhart, Frank Sinatra, and Joe DiMaggio rushed to see the beautiful Hawai'i landmark.

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If you're a beginner who's looking to give surfing a try, Waikiki is a great place to do it. Not only do you have gorgeous views and plenty of surf schools, but the vibe will leave you feeling fantastic even while you're working through the basics of surfing.

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Yet, climate change and beach development are speeding up the natural rates of erosion on Waikiki's beaches. These sand nourishment projects will have to be repeated every five to ten years, due to tourism's demand in the area and on the island itself.

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Honestly, prices in Hawaii are not greater than mainland US. Some restaurants DO charge high prices depending on where (usually ocean side dining costs more, eating at high-end chain restaurants or hotels is expensive). However, there are places to eat where you can expect to pay prices you are familiar with.

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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.

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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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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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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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Can I swim at Waikiki Beach after hours? While the beach is open 24/7, swimming after lifeguard hours is generally discouraged for safety reasons.

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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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