How to Decide Between Experiences on Kauai

KAUAI IS EXPENSIVE! But we’re here to help you spend your money the right way

How to get around

We always suggest hiring a car or a jeep when in Hawaii. Even better, get a camper jeep that doubles as your transport and your accommodation if you’re on a tight budget. For this particular trip, we opted for a bright red jeep and we got it through Turo Jeep rental at $150 USD a day.

Where to stay

We stayed at a local BnB called Fern Grotto Inn that had direct access to the Wailua River for $300 USD a night. They even provided kayaks and stand up paddle boards included in the price. We would say that that’s mid range to low priced on this expensive Hawaiian island.

This is our budget option: Kumu Camp at $60 USD a night for a tentalow, and direct access to the ocean. They have camp grounds, tents and bungalows as well.

what to do

Mauna Loa Doors Off Helicopter Tour $350pp

GyPSy Guide Self-Drive Tour

Kayaking the Wailua River to Secret Falls (included in BnB)

Makana Napali Coast Boat Tour $189pp

Hiking the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast $35pp

Waimea Canyon State Park $20 for two people

Budgeting tips

Find cheap flights on Scotts Cheap Flights or Faredrop
Use credit card points to book hotel stays
Alternatively, book tentalows or a camper jeep and stay at campsites
Shop at the local grocery shops instead of eating out
Pack meals and snacks on every outing
Don’t spend too much on your accommodation and save your money for all the expensive experiences like helicopter rides, boat tours, hiking trails etc.