First-time visitors often overlook fees, taxes, and everyday costs that quickly pile up. From mandatory resort charges to surprise parking rates and even the cost of sunscreen, Hawaii has a way of nickel-and-diming travelers if they’re not prepared.
Here’s what you need to know to avoid sticker shock when your credit card bill arrives after paradise.
Resort Fees: The Price of Paradise Comforts
Most mid-range to upscale hotels and even some budget-friendly spots charge a daily resort fee, whether or not you use the amenities. These can run anywhere from $30 to over $60 per night, per room.
What do you get for that? Usually Wi-Fi, towel service, beach rentals, and local phone calls. Sometimes it’s a shell lei greeting and access to a fitness center or yoga class—but don’t expect to opt out. This fee is mandatory, and it adds up fast.
Hawaii’s Hotel Taxes and New Green Fee
Hawaii tacks on a state hotel tax (10.25%), a general excise tax (around 4.712%), and now a new “green fee” in some areas aimed at protecting natural resources. As of 2024, certain counties—especially Maui—have introduced conservation-related charges for visitors staying overnight.
The green fee may be wrapped into your nightly rate or added at checkout, but either way, it’s becoming more common—and it’s not optional.
Parking: Not Always Free, Rarely Cheap
Most Hawaii hotels charge for parking, some condos too, and not just a few bucks. Expect $35–$65 per night for valet or self-parking. Even vacation rentals and condos that advertise “parking available” may charge separately.
Street parking? Good luck. It’s scarce, metered, and strictly enforced. Rent a car, and you’ll likely need to budget just as much to park it as to drive it.
Tip: Some hotels offer packages that include parking—worth asking about.
Car Rental Taxes, Fees, and Hidden Costs of a Hawaii Vacation
Renting a car in Hawaii can seem cheap—until you check out. On top of the base rate, you’ll pay:
- Renting a car in Hawaii can seem cheap—until you check out. On top of the base rate, you’ll pay:
- Airport facility fee
- Vehicle registration recovery
- Taxes on top of all of the above
- Optional add-ons like Insurance, Car Seats, and Dropoff-fees
It’s not uncommon for a $60/day rental to balloon into $100 or more after all the extras.
What’s more, gas prices hover above the national average, especially on the neighbor islands.
Dining: Sticker Shock in Paradise
You’re on vacation—you’ll want to eat well. But remember, most restaurants automatically add a tip or service charge, especially for larger parties or hotel guests.
Quick breakfasts or snacks from a café can cost $20+ per person. A decent sit-down dinner? Easily $50–$100 per head, without alcohol.
Tip: Many vacation rentals come with kitchens. Shopping at Costco or Foodland and preparing a few meals at home can stretch your budget significantly.
Tips and Gratuities: Not Always Optional
In Hawaii, tipping is part of the culture. Here’s a rough guide
- Bell staff: $2–$5 per bag
- Valet: $3–$5 each time
- Housekeeping: $3–$7 per day
- Tour guides: $15–$20, depending on length and group size
- Wait staff 20% (cash is better)
Tour guides: $5–$20 depending on length and group size
Booking a snorkel tour, ATV ride, or helicopter flight? You’ll pay state taxes, sometimes harbor fees, and possibly fuel surcharges. Equipment like snorkels, fins, or wet suits might not be included.
Even hikes into some popular areas now require reservations and entrance fees—like Waimea Valley or Hanauma Bay.
Incidentals You Didn’t Pack
Many visitors forget about TSA restrictions and end up buying pricey items after they land. Here are a few common culprits:
- Sunscreen (reef-safe brands are required and more expensive)
- Aloe for sunburns
- Water shoes or reef-safe footwear
- Hats or rash guards
- Beach toys for kids
These are easily $15–$40 each at ABC Stores or hotel shops.
Tip: Ship a small flat-rate box ahead of your trip with bulky items you can’t bring in a carry-on.
Souvenirs: One More Thing for the Budget
It’s hard to resist a locally made soap, bag of Kona coffee, or wood-carved tiki. Add in a few t-shirts, jewelry, or snacks for friends and family, and you’re easily at $200 or more before you know it.
Local markets often offer better deals than hotel gift shops. But the real value is in items made in Hawaii—not imported knock-offs.
Wi-Fi, Safe, and In-Room Coffee—Not Always Free
Yes, we’re serious. Some hotels charge extra for in-room safes, daily coffee pods, or upgraded Wi-Fi. Others lump it into the resort fee. Always ask—especially if you’re traveling for work or need secure storage for valuables.
Travel Insurance or Cancel-For-Any-Reason Protection
While technically optional, travel protection is something we always recommend. It usually runs about $149–$269 per person depending on coverage. If you skip it and something unexpected happens—delays, illness, natural events—you’ll eat the cost.
Tip: We offer a “Cancel For Any Reason” option that gives you future travel credit or a cash-back upgrade. Ask us before you book.
Final Word: Budget for Reality, Not Just the Brochure
Here’s the bottom line: A Hawaii vacation is worth every penny—but you’ll enjoy it more if you know what’s coming.
When you plan with us, we’ll make sure you understand the real total—not just the flashy online rate. That includes:
- Nightly rate with resort fee + taxes
- Estimated food & activity costs
- Ground transportation and parking
- Protection plans
- Custom itineraries that avoid tourist traps and overpriced fluff
Let us help you build something real and personal. No surprises, just memories.
Need help budgeting your trip the smart way? Give us a call—1-800-843-8771, we’re right here on island time, and we’ve been helping folks like you avoid the pitfalls for over 20 years.