When coming to Hawaii, often expenses seem to add up quickly. With airfare as such a huge part of your travel budget to get to these islands, more and more people are looking for hostels that can help them to save money on accommodation, leaving more room in your budget for the fun stuff. The good news is that there are actually quite a few hostels in Honolulu, all with their own distinct charm and personality.
Waikiki is the most common place for backpackers to stay in Honolulu, simply because it is the most convenient. Bus transportation is readily available, the beach is a block or two away at most, and nightlife and dining options surround you. Hostels here tend to be quite lively and you’ll always find something going on, day or night.
If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet, you might try a hostel in Manoa. The main feature of this town is the University of Hawaii’s Manoa campus, which means that it is pretty well connected to public transport since there are many students who live in the area. Manoa is a lot more residential, nestled into Manoa valley and home to the beautiful and easily accessible hike at Manoa Falls.
Haleiwa and Waialua are popular towns for those looking to spend some time up on the North shore. In the winter, big-wave surfers (and the crowds that follow them) make this side of the island a hub of activity. During the summer when the surf is up back in Waikiki, the north shore is great for snorkeling, diving, and just chilling out with some shave ice. It’s slightly more out of the way, but the vibe is much more laid back than Waikiki.
