Hawaii Travel Hacks 101

I know you've seen a million different posts on general travel hacks, but how about one dedicated specifically for Hawaii? By no means am I claiming that this is the one list to rule them all, but hopefully this gives you at least a couple ideas for the next time you're in Aloha nation!

Don't book your room or suite directly with your hotel! Hah, I know this may seem biased given you are on a website that's named timeshare rentals :) but it really is a no brainer decision that everyone should at least consider. Especially if you are traveling with your family, booking a one or two bedroom suite at your favorite Westin or Marriott can literally cost you a fortune. The good news is there are vacation timeshare owners that may not be using their unit and are willing to rent it out to you, usually at a fraction of the cost you would pay the hotel. It's a win-win: the owners earn some extra cash and you save a ton of money!

1. Take Advantage of Grocery Delivery

When you first arrive in paradise, isn't it such a pain to have to go to the grocery store or Costco to stock up on basic supplies, when all you want to do is jump in the pool or ocean? Before you leave for the airport, schedule to have your food and water delivered directly to your hotel using a grocery delivery service. Why not have your case of bottled water, drinks, bread, cereal all picked up and delivered straight to your room by your bell man when you arrive? P.S.- it's way cheaper than you think!

2. Double Dip on Hawaiian Air Status

This little tip has an expiration date on it but due to the pandemic, Hawaiian Air gives you double points/qualification segments for each trip taken to encourage travel. That means four quick trips can get you the ever-coveted platinum status!

3. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle)

Tired of paying $30-$50 for a wine corkage fee at your favorite steak house? A ton of awesome restaurants in Hawaii actually encourage you to bring your own beer and wine for no extra charge. My favorite BYOB spot is Mitch's Fish Market & Sushi bar. Incredible local Japanese grade omakase and you don't have to break the bank on beverages!

4. Give Yourself an Extra Day

If your flight arrives early, or if you're switching hotels, worry no more. Just have your beach/pool clothes ready to change in and enjoy the resort's amenities all day while you wait. This is especially useful at hotels like the Aulani (Disney). There you can enjoy the water park from the moment it opens in the morning until it's time for you to check in.

5. Buy from the Local Fruit Stand or Farmers' Market

I've had some of the biggest, juiciest lemons, avocadoes, passion fruit, mangoes, etc. etc. straight off of some road side fruit stands. A lot of times there is no one even there, and you just donate however much you feel like giving.

6. Never Underestimate the Power of a Rice Cooker

Ever felt you had enough spam and rice for the next year, and you're just craving a nice spicy ramen, but you have no kitchen in your unit? If this is you, then I recommend bringing a couple packages of your favorite noodle (I'm an original Shin ramen fan) and request a rice cooker. Believe it or not, this is actually a perfect device to cook a nice hot bowl of ramen. You can comfortably fit two packages in one rice cooker!

7. Maximize Your Chances to Encounter Hawaii's Stunning Wildlife

Interestingly, sea turtles generally come out to the sand at similar times in the day or afternoon. This can change from time to time, so you should go out to a spot that is known for more regular sightings, then ask a local staff or beach bum when they come out. It is luck at the end of the day but why not at least increase your odds?

Alright, that's it for now. I know there are a bunch that I'm blanking on right now but hope this gives you a gist. I'd love to hear if you have any cool additions that I can use too, so feel free to comment! Thanks for reading and until next time. Happy travels!