Hi, I am planning a trip to Waikiki in December and I am on a tight budget. I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good hotel, close to the beach, for less than $95/night. Any suggestions? Also, any recommendations for inexpensive activities would be great. Thanks so much! -MJM

You can bid on Hawaii packages on Priceline. Also, check Expedia, Hotwire, and Orbitz.

For inexpensive things to do, check the Hawaii thread. There is good info there.

Aloha!

Check the Ohana Chain.
lots of free activities- Climb Diamond head ($1), go to Pearl Harbor, hike some of the many trail, Brunch on the Beach and sunset on the beach (with movies on the sand) are free if you're there on the weekend, go to the beaches- Waimea and the north shore may have huge waves...you can't swim, but can watch the surfers. Hanauma bay is $3 entry, plus snorkel rental if needed. Use the city bus to get around- if you'll be out a lot, you can get a monthly pass at 7-11.
Have fun!

We stayed at the Aston Waikiki Grand Hotel this summer. Basic, clean, tourist hotel. 1/2 block from ocean - our room had view of the ocean and Diamond Head. The zoo and park is across the street. Really liked the location. Just checked the web for December prices and found a city view for $69.95 and ocean view hotel room or city view kitchenette for $79.99.
We stayed at MUCH nicer places later in the trip (Hilton, Four Seasons), but for a basic room to lay your head while you sight-see during the day, it fit the bill. There are other hotels nearby in the same class.
Interesting - Denny's on the corner with full bar! I guess only on Waikiki!

lcuy, did you see my post on the wedding thread? Email me!!


MJM, the Outrigger/Ohana chain should suffice for the price. I have also heard some pretty good things about the Aqua Bamboo hotel.

MJM

Check out Frommer's Budget Traveler magazine. Earlier this year, they featured an article on best buys for Hawaii-many well under $ 90.
FYI-this magazine features some of the BEST,LOW-COST travel deals I have ever seen! It only comes out every few months.