Planning a trip to Oahu, Hawaii, but trying not to break the bank in the process? Booking a trip to Hawaii can be expensive — but it doesn’t have to be!
While Hawaii has a reputation for being a costly destination to visit since flights, hotels, and rental cars can add up quickly — there are actually plenty of free or cheap things to do in Oahu to keep you entertained without blowing the budget. Additionally, Oahu is one of the cheapest Hawaiian Islands to visit, so if you’re trying to save money on a trip to Hawaii, visiting Oahu is a great choice!
From hiking and snorkeling to window shopping and beach hopping, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best free things to do in Oahu, Hawaii, below. Let’s jump right in!
Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!
Cheap or Free Hikes in Oahu
Though there are 200+ hikes on the island, the following free and cheap hikes on Oahu are some of the most popular (and scenic!) hikes you’ll definitely want to check off your Oahu bucket list.
1. Lanikai Pillbox Trail
Lanikai Pillbox Trail (also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail) is one of the most popular hikes on Oahu and one of the best things to do on Oahu for free. This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail offers incredible views of Lanikai Beach and Oahu’s Windward Coast.
The hike is rocky, steep, and relatively challenging, but you’ll be rewarded with remarkable views. You can also climb on one of two pillboxes at the trail’s end, used as observation stations in the 1940s during World War II. The pillboxes are a fabulous spot to rest or snap a photo before heading back down the mountain.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 382-498 Kaelepulu Dr Kailua, HI 96734
- Insider Tip — Park in the public parking lot at Lanikai Beach, walk to the trail, and then take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters after the hike!
2. Upper Mauka Cave
Upper Makau Cave (also known as Kaneana Cave) is one of the best easy hikes in Oahu and the perfect place to experience priceless views for free!
This hike is located on the west coastline, near Kaena Point. Follow signs for Kaneana Caves, then park on the side of the road. Lower Makau Cave is located right near where you park, so check that out before taking the trail up the hill to Upper Mauka Cave. While the trail is short (less than a mile each way), it is incredibly steep and exposed. You’ll definitely want to bring hiking boots or shoes with good traction because the hike can get slippery.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the coastline framed by the curves of the cave. These spectacular views make the hike to Upper Makau Cave one of the best free things to do on Oahu.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 82-180 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, Hawaii
- Recommended by — Allison from She Dreams of Alpine
3. Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
There are tons of great Oahu hikes, and one of the best easy trails in Oahu is the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. The trail is located at the southeastern point of Oahu, less than 30 minutes from Honolulu. And the best part about the trail? You don’t have to pay an entry fee, making it one of the best things to do on Oahu for free!
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a pretty easy hike — it’s 2.5 miles total with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. Free parking is available at the trailhead. The trail is entirely paved, and there are plenty of lookout spots along the way with amazing views. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot whales! At the top, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the Oahu shoreline, Koko Head, Koko Crater, and, of course, the namesake red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse.
Though the trail is relatively easy, there is no shade. Remember sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. To avoid the crowds and midday heat, do the hike early in the morning.
- Cost — Free
- Location — Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795
- Recommended by — Sydney from A World in Reach
4. Koko Head Hike
The hike up Koko Head is quite a workout — you’ll climb over 1,000 steps to the top — but it’s well worth the effort for the beautiful panoramic view from the top. The stairs are made of old railroad ties used to haul cargo and supplies to the top of the mountain during World War II.
Parking for the trailhead is at Koko Head District Park, and from there, you can easily navigate to the start of the trail. There is a flat dirt section before you begin the ascent up the stairs. At around a hundred steps, you will see beautiful views of famous landmarks like Hanauma Bay and the Port Lock Peninsula. Once you reach the top, you can climb above the military bunker for additional beautiful views of Diamond Head. From the backside, you can see the lava rock coastline and Sandy Beach. The gorgeous views will showcase why this hikes is one of the best things to do on Oahu!
Wear proper footwear for the hike and bring lots of water and sun protection. Reaching the top will take you about 30 minutes to one hour.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 423 Kaumakani St, Honolulu
- Recommended by — Candice from CS Ginger
5. Hanauma Bay Rim Trail
Hanauma Bay Rim Trail, located in Koko Head District Park, is a 3.9-mile loop that offers gorgeous views of Koko Crater and Hanauma Bay. The trail has an easy-to-moderate difficulty level, so it is accessible for hikers of all skill levels. You can complete the trail within 1.5 hours.
Hikers should bring shoes with good traction (like hiking boots), plenty of water, and a quality, light hiking backpack like the Osprey Farpoint 40 to carry supplies during the hike. A Hawaiian vacation can be expensive — but it doesn’t have to be! Luckily, Hanauma Bay Rim Trail is one of the best things to do on Oahu for free.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 7381 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825
- Recommended by — Catalin from Travel Trained
6. Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead is one of the most popular and well-known hikes on Oahu. And while this trail isn’t free, it is one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu — admission to the state monument and hike is only $5 per person, plus a $10 charge for parking per vehicle.
Diamond Head is a dormant volcanic cone that is one of the most famous landmarks on Oahu. The hike to the top is pretty short — only 1.8 miles out and back — but offers gorgeous views of Waikiki Beach, Waikiki, and Honolulu. It’s one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu, and it’s also a must-do attraction to check off your Hawaii bucket list.
- Cost — $5 per person + $10 per vehicle
- Location — Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Insider Tip — Staying in Waikiki? Take an Uber or Lyft or walk to the entrance of Diamond Head State Monument to forgo the $10 vehicle parking fee.
7. Manoa Falls Trail
Manoa Falls Trail is one of the most popular waterfall hikes on Oahu and is practically free — the only cost associated with the trail is a $5 parking fee.
The trail itself is a 1.7-mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of just over 600 feet and ends at the base of a stunning waterfall. The hike takes about an hour to complete, but you’ll definitely want to spend some time snapping photos at the base of the waterfall. Unfortunately, swimming at the base of the waterfall is not permitted.
- Cost — $5 per vehicle
- Location — Na Ala Hele, Honolulu, HI 96822
Free Snorkeling Spots in Oahu
If you bring your own snorkeling gear, snorkeling with the tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in Hawaii is one of the best things to do for free on Oahu. Though some snorkeling spots in Oahu, like Hanauma Bay, charge admission, other places, like the ones listed below, are entirely free!
8. Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove is a small rocky bay on Oahu’s breathtaking North Shore filled with beautiful coral reefs and a diverse array of tropical fish. Since there is no admission or parking fee, snorkeling in the clear, shallow waters at Shark’s Cove is one of the top free things to do in Oahu!
While snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, you’ll likely see triggerfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, needlefish, trumpetfish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures (but no sharks — the name comes from the fact that the cove resembles a shark from an aerial view!). Watch for jagged rocks while you’re in the water, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and only snorkel if the current is calm.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 59-711 Kamehameha Hwy Haleiwa, HI 96712
- Insider Tip — Find more free snorkeling on the North Shore by visiting Waimea Bay, Three Tables Beach, and Kuilima Cove.
9. Queens Beach & San Souci Beach
Snorkeling near Waikiki Beach at Queens Beach and San Souci Beach is one of the best things to do in Oahu for free. These beaches are located south of the popular resorts in Waikiki near the Waikiki Marine Life Conservation District, so you’ll see plenty of colorful fish, coral, and other marine animals, like sea turtles since fishing is not allowed here.
Before jumping in, proceed with caution and know the conditions. Avoid snorkeling when there’s a south swell, be cautious of the currents, and only snorkel when the waves are calm. Near Kapiolani Park, you can access restrooms, picnic tables, and showers. After a day of snorkeling, stick around to soak up one of the most spectacular sunsets in Oahu from Waikiki Wall Walkway (next to Queens Beach!).
- Cost — Free
- Location — 2715 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Recommended by — Danielle from Stuff It Go Travelling
Free Beaches on Oahu
While all beaches on Oahu are public beaches and, therefore, free, these are a few of the beaches you’ll definitely want to take advantage of visiting for free during a trip to Oahu.
10. Laniakea Beach
If you are looking for a place to have some fun in Hawaii, visit Laniakea Beach on the North Shore — nicknamed “Turtle Beach” because of the green sea turtles often basking in the sun on the shore. You’re welcome to look at, learn about, and snap photos of the turtles while visiting Laniakea Beach — just don’t touch them (it’s illegal!).
In addition to sea turtle spotting at Laniakea Beach—one of the best things to do on Oahu for free—this beach is great for swimming because the water clarity makes it easy to see underwater life, such as coral reefs, turtles, and various fish species. Remember to bring sunscreen, a towel, snorkel gear, a camera, and beach toys for the kids!
- Cost — Free
- Location — 61-676 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI
- Recommended by — Cortney from Tin Can Living
11. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is an absolute must-visit during any trip to Oahu. There are tons of fun things to do on Waikiki Beach, from surfing the waves and paddling on an outrigger canoe to catamaran cruising and sipping on cocktails on the beach’s sandy shores.
Waikiki Beach stretches two miles from The Royal Hawaiian Hotel to the Duke Kahanamoku Statue and is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the world. Though it’s definitely not one of the cheapest things to do in Oahu, staying in one of the hotels right on Waikiki Beach, like the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort or Moana Surfrider, is such a fun experience.
Waikiki Beach is the most famous beach in Waikiki, but to escape the crowds, be sure to visit other beaches in the area, like Kahanamoku Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach, Kuhio Beach, Queens Beach, San Souci Beach, and Kaimana Beach.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI
- Insider Tip — While relaxing on Waikiki Beach, walk up to Duke’s and grab a drink and appetizers from the Barefoot Bar. This might not be the cheapest activity — but it is a lot of fun!
12. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach was my favorite beach we visited during our trip to Oahu. Like Waikiki Beach, it is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, and it is described as the “most beautiful” of all the Oahu beaches. The turquoise waves and pillowy sand at Lanikai Beach, with the Mokulua Islands in the background, are simply breathtaking!
Relaxing on the sand with a good book or swimming in the pristine waters is a great way to spend a day on Lanikai Beach (for free!). We had heard the snorkeling was good here, so we brought our snorkeling gear, but during the time of day we visited, the water was cloudy, and the visibility was low, so we only saw one sea turtle (still a massive win in my book!). I think visiting earlier in the day would have resulted in better snorkeling conditions.
- Cost — Free
- Location — Lanikai Beach, Kailua, HI 96734
- Insider Tip — Spend the day at Lanikai Beach after hiking the nearby Lanikai Pillbox Trail, and end the day with a sweet shave ice treat from Island Snow!
Free or Cheap Cultural and Historical Attractions on Oahu
From famous landmarks and fascinating museums to renowned resorts and world-class events, Oahu offers dozens of attractions that will allow you to immerse yourself in the island’s history and culture — all for free!
13. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Visitor Center and taking a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Oahu.
Pearl Harbor is one of the most famous landmarks in Hawaii. Its beautiful park, Remembrance Circle, and harbor views inspire sober reflection. Visitors with an interest in history can spend several hours here. The site hosts exhibit galleries with artifacts, photos, and audio diaries from those who were present for the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center offers a 75-minute program that includes a short documentary and a boat trip to the USS Arizona. Tickets must be reserved in advance for $1 per person. Those who want to continue learning about the destination from home can visit the bookstore to choose from a comprehensive collection of books, movies, and other souvenirs.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96816
- Recommended by — Erica from Trip Scholars
14. Chinatown
One of the top things to do in Honolulu and things to do for free in Oahu is visiting Chinatown in Downtown Honolulu. Come hungry so you can start with a fabulous dim sum meal of little bites that are either carted or hand-carried directly from the kitchen to hungry visitors. There’s a variety of dim sum shops centered around the Chinatown Cultural Plaza.
After a delicious dim sum feast, walk around the area and find a variety of cool lei shops, bakeries, souvenir stands, and even contemporary art galleries that are part of the hip art scene in Chinatown. If you are looking for more historical walking tours while visiting Honolulu, you can do some fun tours with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 1120 Maunakea St #200, Honolulu, HI 96817
- Recommended by — Noel from This Hawaii Life
15. Luxury Resort Hopping
We all know that Hawaii isn’t the cheapest place to stay. However, if you’re staying in a vacation rental or cheaper hotel to save money — that doesn’t mean you can’t go “resort hopping” and explore the lobbies of some of the best luxury beachfront hotels in Oahu for free!
Some of the coolest hotels to check out in Oahu for free are in Waikiki and Ko Olina. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa, and The Royal Hawaiian are both hotels with rich histories situated on Waikiki Beach (within walking distance, too!). Moana Surfrider, built in 1901, was the first hotel on Waikiki Beach, and The Royal Hawaiian, built in 1927, ushered in a new era of luxury travel to Hawaii and was (and still is!) beloved for its bubblegum pink facade.
Disney lovers should definitely pay a visit to Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa, in the beautiful resort neighborhood of Ko Olina. Though most resort amenities, like the swimming pool and waterslides, are rightfully reserved for guests, you can still explore the shops in the lobby and grab a Dole Whip by the pool. It feels like a little taste of Disneyland right in Hawaii!
- Cost — Free
- Location — Waikiki & Ko Olina
16. Dole Pineapple Plantation
Spending a few hours exploring the Dole Pineapple Plantation is one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu — especially before spending a day on the North Shore!
Located seven miles south of Haleiwa, Dole Pineapple Plantation opened as the first “Pineapple Experience” in Hawaii in 1989, though it started operating as a fruit stand in the 1950s. Admission to the Dole Pineapple Plantation Visitor Center is completely free (where you’ll be able to buy a Dole Soft Serve — yum!), but admission to the attractions is also pretty affordable.
Though the Pineapple Express Train Tour is $13.75, you can wander through the Pineapple Garden Maze or take a Plantation Garden Tour for under $10 per adult. The combo package for all three attractions is $27 per adult and $23 per child.
- Cost — Varies
- Location — 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy., Wahiawa, Hawaii 96786
17. Byodo-In Temple
Byodo-In Temple is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains. This stunning temple, built in 1963, is a smaller replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan, which is nearly 1,000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although it is a non-practicing temple, it’s still a beautiful place for meditation and reflection.
Byodo-In Temple features a Buddha statue, a Bell House, a Meditation Pavillion, and other points of interest that make for lovely photos. Admission to the temple grounds is $5 for adults and $2 for children, making this cultural attraction one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu.
- Cost — $5 per adult
- Location — 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744
18. Royal Hawaiian Center Cultural Events & Entertainment
Royal Hawaiian Center is one of the top outdoor shopping centers in Waikiki that offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Though some shows, like Rock-A-Hula Luau, are paid events, several free cultural events, experiences, and entertainment options take place at The Royal Grove at the Royal Hawaiian Center!
You can participate in free lei-making classes, ukulele lessons, and hula lessons for kids and adults. You can also watch free music and dance performances at The Royal Grove. Be sure to check the calendar to see what is happening at the Royal Hawaiian Center while you’re in Waikiki!
- Cost — Free
- Location — 2201 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
19. Pipeline Pro Surf Competition
Every year, during the second and third weeks of December, the best pro surfers in the world come to the North Shore of Oahu to compete in the Pipeline Pro Surf Competition.
This is the final event of the World Surf League, where surfers battle it out to determine who will become the world champion. The event is held at Banzai Pipeline, and spectators can enjoy watching surfers ride waves and pull into some huge barrels — which, as the name suggests, is why the Pipeline is famous! The waves break just a couple hundred feet from shore, meaning you can set up along the palm tree-lined beach for a day full of entertainment.
One of the best things about this event is the buzz and energy on the beach. The beaches are packed on the days the competition runs, with people cheering and going wild as they watch the world’s best surfers compete. The Pipeline Pro has an electric atmosphere and is one of the best things to do on Oahu for free — even if you don’t like surfing!
- Cost — Free
- Location — ʻEhukai Beach Park, 59-337 Ke Nui Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
- Recommended by — Luke from Wild About BC
20. Honolulu Museum of Art
If you’re searching for one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu with kids, be sure to visit the Honolulu Museum of Art. While adult tickets are $25 each, kids of all ages (18 and under) are free — so if you’re visiting with your child, the cost of admission evens out to $12.50 each, which is a reasonable price!
The Honolulu Museum of Art features 55,000 art pieces spanning thousands of years and features lots of art from Africa, Asia, North America, Europe, and Hawaii (of course!). If you’re visiting Oahu and looking for something fun (and cheap!) to do with your kids, pay a visit to the Honolulu Museum of Art!
- Cost — $25 for adults, but kids (18 and under) are free
- Location — 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Free Outdoor Attractions on Oahu
Aside from the hikes, beaches, and snorkeling spots listed earlier, there are tons of other ways to get outside and enjoy the lush, tropical landscapes and sun-soaked beaches in Oahu. Here are some ideas:
21. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
You won’t want to miss Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens in Kaneohe on Oahu’s Windward Coast! This botanical garden is one of the best things to do for free in Oahu and offers nearly 400 acres of beautiful tropical gardens and landscapes to explore.
At Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, you’ll discover walking trails, lakes, and palm-tree-lined roads with the Ko’olau Mountain Range as the backdrop. Ho’omaluhia means “a peaceful refuge,” and that’s truly what this location is. Many other things to do in Oahu for free are bustling with crowds, but the gardens offer a peaceful setting to enjoy a beautiful tropical setting. The land is lush and makes the perfect setting for a picnic!
- Cost — Free
- Location — 45–680 Luluku Road, Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii
- Recommended by — Destiny from Guided by Destiny
22. North Shore
Taking a day trip to the North Shore is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in Oahu.
The North Shore offers tons of fun things to do for cheap (or for free!), including snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, looking for sea turtles at Laniakea Beach, and exploring the shops and vendors in Haleiwa (and taking a picture by the colorful wings, pictured below!). In addition to things to do for free, there are plenty of food trucks and cheap eats on the North Shore, like Sunrise Shack, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and Matsumoto Shave Ice.
If you want to make a day trip to the North Shore completely free (aside from gas), pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the beach! You won’t regret visiting the North Shore for a taste of “authentic” Hawaii without the crowds in tourist-infested spots like Waikiki and Honolulu.
- Cost — Free
- Location — North Shore
23. Window Shopping
While shopping at the luxury retailers and high-end boutiques in Waikiki might not be cheap — window shopping doesn’t cost a dime! There are several open-air shopping centers in Waikiki, like the Royal Hawaiian Center and International Market Place, filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Though many of the high-end retailers and restaurants aren’t budget-friendly, there are affordable places to shop for souvenirs and grab a bite to eat, like ABC Stores and Banan.
If you have a car, Ala Moana Center in Honolulu is also a must-visit destination for window shopping. With more than 350 retailers and restaurants, Ala Moana Center holds the title of the world’s largest open-air shopping center!
- Cost — Free
- Location — Waikiki & Honolulu
24. Spitting Cave
On the southwest side of Oahu, dramatic rock cliffs formed through a series of volcanic eruptions make for a uniquely picturesque setting — one of the best things to do on Oahu for free! This spot, known as “Spitting Cave,” is named for the hollow cave at the base of the cliff, which draws water in and then forcefully “spits” it back out into the ocean.
Enter “Spitting Cave” into Google Maps, and it will lead you straight to the alleyway entrance at the end of a neighborhood street. Look for white and blue warning signs on a pole between two houses. The entrance to the Spitting Cave begins just past that.
Make your way down the short but steep and slippery natural staircase. You’ll come out onto a broad, flat rock face with sheer drop-offs to the ocean below. There’s plenty of space, though, so you can (and should) stay well away from the edge. Bring a blanket and picnic basket and relax as the sun sets over the cliffs.
- Cost — Free
- Location — 7 Lumahai St, Honolulu, HI 96825
- Recommended by — Rachel from Type A Getaway
25. Halona Blowhole Lookout
Located just north of Hanauma Bay and Koko Head is the Halona Blowhole Lookout — one of the most scenic lookouts and the best free things to do in Oahu.
Halona Blowhole is a natural lava tube created by volcanic activity in Hawaii. When the tide comes in, water “shoots” up the blowhole and can shoot up to 30 feet into the air. It’s a pretty amazing site to see! The waves are generally the most intense in the winter months, making this the best time to visit the Halona Blowhole.
There is a free parking lot available for Halona Blowhole Lookout, but it does fill up quickly, so arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance of snagging a spot. And while you’re here, be sure to check out the picturesque Halona Cove!
- Cost — Free
- Location — 8483 HI-72, Honolulu, HI 96825
26. Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout
Want to trade the hustle and bustle of Honolulu for some spectacular views? If so, hop in the car and drive about six miles north to Nu’uanu Pali Lookout.
Located on the Pali Highway between Honolulu and Oahu’s Windward Coast lies the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the Koʻolau Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll climb more than 1,000 feet above sea level to reach the top of the lookout, where you’ll be greeted with a stone terrace overlook that offers spectacular island views. Admission to the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is $7 per vehicle, making it one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu.
- Cost — $7 per vehicle
- Location — Nuuanu Pali Dr, Kaneohe, HI 96744
27. Farmers’ Markets
Support local farmers, artisans, and vendors by shopping at Oahu’s farmers’ markets. While walking around these markets is free, purchasing food and snacks is often a great way to save money on meals while visiting Hawaii.
Some of the most popular markets include the Honolulu Farmers Market on Wednesday afternoons, the Kapiʻolani Community College Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, and the Kailua Farmers Market on Thursday evenings — all hosted by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau.
- Cost — Free
- Location — Various Locations
28. Hilton Hawaiian Village Friday Fireworks Show
Some say that the Hilton Hawaiian Village is one of the most famous hotels in the world. Whether you know it as Elvis’s film set for Blue Hawaii or the iconic rainbow-tiled beachfront hotel tower, it’s a beloved Oahu resort for visitors and a favorite spot for locals.
For over 30 years, the hotel has put on a free weekly fireworks show on Duke Kahanamoku Beach right out front of the resort. Every Friday at 7:45 PM, the hotel lights up the skyline of Waikiki with a ten-minute fireworks show so grand that you can see it from nearby neighborhoods.
Head down to the beach, lagoon, or surrounding areas 15–30 minutes before the show to grab a viewing spot, as it does get crowded. After all, it is one of the best things to do on Oahu for free and one of the best things to do in Honolulu at night!
- Cost — Free
- Location — Hilton Hawaiian Village, 2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Recommended by — Monica from A Planner at Heart
Cheap Eats in Oahu
Though eating out in Hawaii can be expensive, you can find some cost-effective places to eat around Oahu. These popular places to eat in Oahu either offer cheap eats or great happy hour deals that make dining out in Oahu more affordable.
29. Leonard’s Bakery
Looking for a cheap and delicious breakfast? Head to Leonard’s Bakery — an Oahu staple!
Leonard’s has been serving hot, fresh malasadas (Portuguese donuts) to the island of Oahu since 1953. And while these malasadas are delicious — they are super inexpensive, too! Malasadas are $1.85 each, and malasada puffs (malasadas filled with a custard filling) are $2.25 each. Though you can get just one, I recommend getting a box filled with malasadas to split with family and friends. They’re so tasty — you’ll want more than one, I promise!
- Cost — $1–10 per person
- Location — 933 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816
30. Sunrise Shack
If you’re craving a smoothie bowl or delicious smoothie, head to Sunrise Shack, an iconic food truck on the North Shore with locations in Waikiki and Kailua.
Sunrise Shack’s smoothie bowls, like the Acai Bowl, Tropical Bowl, and Monkey Bowl (my favorite!), are just over $10, and the smoothies range from $7–9. Since these superfood smoothies and bowls are packed with delicious, filling fruits and nut butters, they’re perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a post-dinner treat.
- Cost — $7–12 per person
- Locations — Shark’s Cove, Sunset Beach, Waikiki, Kailua, Ala Moana Center
31. Maui Brewing Company
Eating an early dinner during happy hour is one of the best ways to save money during a trip to Oahu. And fortunately, one of the best breweries in Oahu — Maui Brewing Company — offers an exceptional happy hour from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM on Monday through Friday and from 9:30 PM – 10:30 PM on Thursday through Sunday.
During happy hour, you can get $2 off house beers, $3 off craft cocktails, half off select appetizers, and $12 craft pizzas. You’ll end up paying about $20 for a pizza and a beer, which is a pretty good deal!
- Cost — $7–20 per person
- Locations — Waikiki & Kailua
32. Monkeypod Kitchen
Monkeypod Kitchen is one of the most popular places to eat in Maui and Oahu, and normally, I wouldn’t consider it a “cheap” place to eat. However, Monkeypod Kitchen offers a fantastic happy hour from 3:30 PM – 5 PM daily, which makes a meal here pretty affordable!
During happy hour, Monkeypod Kitchen offers $2 off draft beers, $3 off glasses of wine, and $4 off craft cocktails (the Monkeypod Mai Tai is a must-try!). All appetizers — aside from seafood — are half off, and pizzas are $13 each (which is $10 off the regular price!). If you’re eating on a budget in Oahu and still want to enjoy a nice meal out — definitely hit up Monkeypod Kitchen during happy hour once (or twice… or three times!).
- Cost — $7–25 per person
- Locations — Waikiki & Ko Olina
33. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck has been a staple on the North Shore since 1953 and now has locations parked in Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Honolulu.
Though Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is known for its shrimp plates with a dozen jumbo shrimp and two scoops of white rice for $15 (the Shrimp Scampi is the bestseller!), they also serve a Jumbo Garlic Hot Dog smothered in scampi sauce and served with two scoops of white rice for just $5. The shrimp plates are a good deal at $15 each, but the hot dog plate is a really good deal if you’re looking to save money while eating out in Oahu!
- Cost — $5–15 per person
- Locations — Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Honolulu
34. Matsumoto Shave Ice
If you’re spending a day (or more!) on the North Shore, paying a visit to Matsumoto Shave Ice is a must. This shave ice stand, located in Historic Haleiwa, has been serving the North Shore since 1951. Today, they serve more than 1,000 bowls of shave ice each day!
Matsumoto Shave Ice is one of the best cheap things to do on Oahu because the shave ice is priced super affordably. A small shave ice is $3.75, and a large is $4.25. Add-ons, like ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, mochi, and azuki beans, cost a little more, but you’ll still pay no more than $10 for shave ice with all the fix-ins from Matsumoto Shave Ice. Definitely check out this shave ice spot on the North Shore — you won’t regret it!
- Cost — $4–10 per person
- Location — 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy Suite #605, Haleʻiwa, Hawaii 96712
Helpful Tips for Saving Money on a Trip to Oahu
Checking out the cheap and free things to do in Oahu is a great way to save money during a trip to Oahu. However, here are some additional tips that will help you cut back on the overall cost of your Hawaiian vacation:
- Travel in the Off-Season — To get the best deals on a trip to Hawaii, avoid traveling during the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) and during the summer. Generally, spring and fall are the best times to travel to Hawaii for great weather, smaller crowds, and more affordable prices.
- Consider a Vacation Rental — Though Hawaii is home to some of the country’s best beachfront hotels, booking a vacation rental off the beach is a great way to save money. Not only will the per-night rate be lower, but you’ll have a kitchen and can cook meals to cut down on the cost of eating out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Hit the Happy Hour Deals — Speaking of eating out… if you do want to eat out at restaurants, plan to eat during happy hour. Many restaurants in Waikiki and other parts of the island offer excellent happy hour deals on drinks, appetizers, and food.
- Choose a Hotel with Breakfast — If you do stay in a hotel, try to find one with breakfast included in the price. With this money-saving tip, you can fill up on a big (free!) breakfast and then plan a late lunch or early dinner later in the day.
- Plan Fewer Days with a Rental Car — Instead of racking up costly rental car and parking fees, consider staying in a walkable neighborhood, like Waikiki, and planning to rent a car for only a few days to explore other parts of the island, like the Windward Coast and North Shore. This is a great way to save money!
FAQs – Cheap & Free Things to Do in Oahu
Is snorkeling free in Oahu?
Yes, there are several places where you can snorkel for free in Oahu, like Shark’s Cove on the North Shore and Queens Beach in Waikiki. For snorkeling to be truly “free,” you will need to bring your own snorkeling gear since rentals can add up quickly.
What is the cheapest month to go to Oahu?
The cheapest months to go to Oahu are April, May, September, and October. Summer is an expensive time to travel to Hawaii because of family summer vacations, and winter brings visitors wanting to escape the cold, snowy weather back home. Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, and other holidays and school breaks are also expensive times to travel to Hawaii.
Is Oahu or Maui cheaper?
Oahu is significantly cheaper to visit than Maui. Oahu offers a wider range of hotel options (budget, mid-range, and luxury), making it easier to find a hotel that fits in the budget. Oahu also has more than double the number of hotels, which brings down the per-night rates significantly. Additionally, Oahu offers more budget restaurants, cheap eats, and free things to do compared to Maui, making it an all-around cheaper option.
Which Hawaiian Island is the cheapest?
Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, followed by the Big Island and Maui. Kauai tends to be the most expensive island to visit due to limited accommodation options and costlier flights.
Make Memories in Oahu on a Budget with These Free Things to Do in Oahu
See — you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a memorable vacation in Oahu!
With this list of cheap and free things to do in Oahu, you’ll be able to fill your days with hiking, snorkeling, sunbathing, sightseeing, and other fun activities without spending a dime. I hope you have an incredible time exploring the tropical beauty of Hawaii!
Save These Best Free Things to Do in Oahu for Your Hawaiian Vacation
Read More
Did you enjoy reading this blog post about the best things to do on Oahu for free? If so, you’ll love these other blogs about Oahu:
- Incredible 5-Day Itinerary for Oahu
- Perfect Oahu North Shore Day Trip Itinerary for First Timers
- Ultimate List of Things to Do in Waikiki (+ Hotels & Restaurants)
- 26 Delicious Places to Eat & Drink in Oahu, Hawaii
- 16 Best Resorts on Oahu for a Luxurious Beachfront Vacation
- Is Oahu in Honolulu? The Difference Between Oahu, Honolulu & Waikiki
30 comments