Really expensive meals compared to the world!!

Question

We're experienced travellers, from the UK eaten almost everywhere, Australia, New Zealand, Far East Asia, Middle East, Mediterranean and Northern Europe, Scandinavian, and most of Africa...... but this island... Woah Whee.

X1 main meal, x1 glass of wine x2 as a couple.... mid range restaurant £100.... Tiki Tiki £130....

We don't do fast food or burgers, but we're not food snobs.

Suggest a x4 day visit, Pearl Harbour, Diamond Head, x2 surf.... get out.

Mainland USA cheaper by £40 a bill.....

Answer

Hawaii is known for being one of the more expensive travel destinations in the US, and the cost of dining out is a frequent surprise for many visitors. The high prices are largely due to the fact that most food and wine have to be imported to the islands, which adds shipping costs, plus labor and rent expenses are higher than on the mainland.

If you are planning a short 4-day visit and want to experience the highlights without over-spending on meals, there are ways to balance the experience:

Pearl Harbor: Allocate a half to full day. There is no entry fee for the USS Arizona Memorial, but the audio tour and museum exhibits have a small cost. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Diamond Head: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki. The hike is about 1.5–2 hours round trip and has a small entry fee for parking.
Surfing: Take two surf lessons or rent boards for a day. Waikiki is beginner-friendly with gentle waves, but North Shore has world-famous surf if you want to watch pros.
Local Eats: Consider mixing fine dining with casual options. Many plate lunch spots and food trucks offer authentic Hawaiian meals at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Tips to manage costs:

Have one high-end meal and balance the rest with local diners, poke shops, or markets.
Look for happy hours; many restaurants have discounted appetizers and drinks in the afternoon.
Breakfasts and lunches are often cheaper than dinner, even at the same restaurant.
Explore grocery stores for snacks and picnic lunches to save money while still enjoying beautiful beach or park locations.

In summary, Hawaii is indeed expensive compared to the mainland or other regions worldwide, but planning a mix of sightseeing and strategic meal choices can make a 4-day visit very enjoyable without breaking the bank. Prioritize the experiences that matter most, like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and surfing, and supplement dining with more casual options to balance your budget.

Really expensive meals compared to the world!!

More Hawaii (HI) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions