Hawaii is known for being infamously expensive. From the hotels to the food, your trip to the Big Island of Hawaii can quickly add up. BUT due to its beautiful landscapes and ample amount of outdoor activities, you can save a few bucks with the activities you choose to do. Here are 11 cheap things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. (Pssst: It just may be my most favorite island!!!)
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Table of Contents
Free Things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii
Let’s start off this epic list with the best free things to do on the island. I mean who doesn’t like the word free?!
1. See the Sea Turtles at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, located on the southern coast of the Big Island, is a unique and mesmerizing spot where visitors can witness (from 10-15 feet away!!!) the graceful sea turtles known as Honu basking in the sun.
This beautiful black sand beach provides a serene environment to observe these ancient creatures in their natural habitat. Although not an ideal beach for swimming, it’s great place for a relaxing afternoon and picnic!
There were 3 turtles basking in the sun when we visited, but others have seen 10+ during their visit!
2. Explore the Lava Tube at Kaumana Caves State Park
This was definitely my husbands favorite stop during our entire Hawaii vacation. AND IT WAS FREE!
Kaumana Caves State Park is located on the side of a pretty busy road. From the first look, it looks like it would be a quick underwhelming stop. BUT, as soon as you venture down the metal stairs you will see the massive entrances to two different lava tubes (one on each side).
Make sure to bring closed toe shoes and a head lamp if you want to explore into the tubes as there are no commercialized lights. It does turn into private property at some point, but it is unclear as to where.
You may also like: Where to Stay on the Big Island
3. Stargaze
The Big Island is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities due to its dark and unpolluted skies. If you are lucky enough to get a clear day, grab a blanket at head outside to check out the amazing stars.
If you are feeling adventurous (and have a 4wd vehicle), you could head up to Mauna Kea, one of the world’s premier observatory sites. We did not have a 4-wheel drive rental or time to do this stop, so I do not have first-hand experience to share.
4. Stroll around the Hilo Farmers Market
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the Hilo Farmers Market, located in the heart of Hilo town. It’s completely free to walk around and chat with the locals. Some will even be delighted to share samples with you! (I do highly recommend supporting the vendors and purchasing one or two fresh items though).
It’s open daily from 7am-3pm with big market days on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
5. Stroll Around the Liliuokalani Gardens
Located in Hilo, Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautiful Japanese garden honoring Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. You can take a leisurely stroll through the serene pathways and enjoy the lush greenery and serene views of Hilo Bay without any entry fees.
6. Have a beach day
With an abundance of stunning beaches around the island, a relaxing beach day is a must-do on the Big Island.
Whether it’s the white sands of Hapuna Beach, the unique green sands of Papakolea Beach, or the black sands of Punalu’u Beach, you’ll find a diverse selection of beach spots to swim, sunbathe, and soak up the Aloha spirit without spending a fortune.
If hoping for a sunny beach day with crystal clear water, make sure to pick a beach on the Kona side of the island. My favorite was Maniniowalu Beach (pictured above).
7. Attend a free Cultural Event or Festival
Keep an eye out for free cultural events and festivals happening around the island, which often feature traditional Hawaiian music, dance performances, arts, and crafts, providing a glimpse into the local culture and heritage.
You may also like: 3-day Itinerary for the Big Island
Cheap Things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii
…and now on to the best cheap things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. The following activities will cost you less than $50 for hours and hours of fun!
8. Go chasing waterfalls
The Big Island boasts a wealth of breathtaking waterfalls cascading through lush rainforests and volcanic terrain. If you know me, then you can guess this was my favorite activity. Big waterfall fan (all the heart eyes).
From the majestic Akaka Falls with its 442-foot drop ($5 per person + $10 to park) to the enchanting Rainbow Falls and PeePee Falls in Hilo (free), waterfall-hopping provides a rejuvenating adventure.
9. Explore Volcano National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a geological marvel where visitors can witness the raw power of active volcanoes. It was the number one reason we wanted to visit the Big Island!
For just a $35 entry fee, you can walk through lava fields, witness smoking craters, and marvel at the volcanic landscapes that have shaped the island’s formation.
The park offers numerous hiking trails, including the Kilauea Iki Trail (pictured above), where you can traverse a once-boiling lava lake, providing a rare glimpse into the Earth’s fiery forces.
If you plan your visit at the right time, you can even witness a volcano erupting (see updates here)! We saw the tail end of the 2023 eruption, but it was such a cool experience!
Tip! Be sure to check out Guide Along’s self-guided tours for a super affordable opportunity to be taken to all the best spots on the Big Island! It’s like having your own personal tour guide!
10. Snorkel at Kahalu’u Beach Park
Known for its abundant marine life, Kahalu’u Beach Park is a fantastic spot for snorkeling on the Big Island.
With its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs, it provides an excellent opportunity to encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures up close.
Although snorkel tours can get quite spendy, you can find cheap rental gear is readily available nearby, making it a cheap thing to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.
11. Take in the views at the Waipi’o Valley Lookout
The Waipi’o Valley Lookout offers a breathtaking panorama of one of the Big Island’s most stunning valleys. While the valley floor hike is currently closed, the lookout provides a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the lush greenery and dramatic cliffs that define this picturesque area.
Be prepared as it is a long drive from Hilo to get to the lookout so you may want to make it into a road trip and find other fun stops along the way.
Free and Cheap Things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii
There ya have it…11+ ways to save some moolah while visiting the epic Big Island. If wanting to see more of Hawaii, be sure to look into the cheap flights that go between the islands (much cheaper than flying back to the mainland and booking separate trips).
To help you plan those… here are some more Hawaiian itineraries!
11. Liliuokalani Gardens
Located in Hilo, Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautiful Japanese garden honoring Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. You can take a leisurely stroll through the serene pathways and enjoy the lush greenery and serene views of Hilo Bay without any entry fees.
Remember to always respect the natural environment and local customs while enjoying your budget-friendly adventures on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Bonus! If you have a bit of room in your Big Island budget (after checking out all these free and cheap things to do), be sure to book a Manta Ray Night Snorkel!
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