How To Plan an Affordable Family Vacation to Kauai

A trip to Kauai is a vacation that might seem expensive and even unattainable if you happen to be on a budget and you have a family. Still, there are numerous ways that you can save money on a trip to Kauai, such as by traveling to the islands off season, when hotels and airlines cut ticket prices to draw visitors in. There are also several ways that you can save money on food on your visit and there are plenty of cheap activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Visit during the low season. The low season in Kauai is usually around September to mid-December and also from May to June. This is when you will find the most savings. Hotels can cut their room rates by up to half during this period while you can expect to get a savings of about 20% on airline travel.

Step 2

Look for resorts that offer "kids eat free" programs. Or for an even more affordable option, consider getting a vacation apartment rental. Eating out in Kauai is very expensive, but a vacation apartment rental has a fully equipped kitchen to allow you to cook meals at "home."

Step 3

Consider staying outside of Princeville and Poipu. While most of the resorts are in these areas, they tend to be more expensive. Instead, consider staying in Lihue, which is much cheaper. Kauai is a relatively small and very accessible island, so there really isn't much reason to stay in a more expensive area.

Step 4

Look for cheap Kauai activities for the whole family. Consider renting some snorkel equipment (or buying some cheap gear) so you and your family can enjoy the sea life below. Lydgate State Park is a great place to snorkel, particularly for kids since it's protected from the open water. For families with older kids, you might want to consider group surfing lessons.

Step 5

Get an Activities and Attractions Association of Hawaii Gold Card for up to 50% savings on numerous tours and activities. One card costs around $30 and is good for four people. This is a great option if you hope to take a helicopter tour or boat cruise of the Na Pali coastline.

Tips & Warnings

For savings on groceries, consider getting a free Makai membership card at Foodland, a major grocery chain in Kauai. Try booking hotel, air and car all together. Most travel companies like Hawaiian Airlines offer discounts for combining air with hotel and/or car rental.

For savings on groceries, consider getting a free Makai membership card at Foodland, a major grocery chain in Kauai.

Try booking hotel, air and car all together. Most travel companies like Hawaiian Airlines offer discounts for combining air with hotel and/or car rental.

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

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