Hawaii can get pretty pricey, between airfare, hotel rooms, food, and activities once you’re on the islands. Luckily, if you know where to look you can fill your days with excursions that won’t break your budget. All beaches in the state are public, so you can enjoy free swimming, walking, and sunbathing on any sandy strip. But for a unique Big Island experience, here are our favorite activities for under $15.
You’ll need a car for most of these (rentals start at $22 a day)—the Big Island has its name for a reason. This list starts on the Hilo side and travels north and west to the Kona side. For a full experience, we recommend visiting both sides of the island.
Other suggestions? Add your budget Big Island ideas in the comments. By Jess Moss
Watch volcanoes in action at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Cost: $10 per vehicle, $5 per individual on foot/bicycle
Learn more: Hawaii">
Soak or swim in a thermally heated natural pool in Puna
Location: Puna
Cost: Free
Learn more: Ahalanui"> and Kapoho">
Shop for local crafts, produce, and food at the Hilo Farmers’ Market
Location: Hilo
Cost: Free entry
Learn more: Hilo">
Take in the views on a scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast
Location: Hamakua">
Cost: Free
Learn more: Hamakua">
Gaze at the sunrise, sunset, or stars from the summit of Mauna Kea
Location: Mauna">
Cost: Free
Learn more: Mauna">
Learn the paniolo (cowboy) way at Anna Ranch in Waimea
Location: Waimea
Cost: $10
Learn more: Anna">
Go snorkeling from the shore to see colorful coral and sea life
Location: Whole island
Cost: Free plus around $7 for daily gear rental
Learn more: Big">
Learn about King Kamehameha at Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Location: Kohala">
Cost: Free
Learn more: Puukohola">
Join a nightly manta ray talk and viewing at Sheraton Keauhou
Location: Kailua-Kona
Cost: Free (and open to non-hotel guests)
Learn more: Sheraton">
Sip a local brew and listen to live music at Kona Brewing Co.
Location: Kailua-Kona
Cost: $4.25-$5.25 per glass, $9 for a sampler of 4 beers
Learn more: Kona">
Spot birds and sea turtles on a coastal walk at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Location: Kailua-Kona
Cost: Free
Learn more: Kaloko-Honokohau">
Tour a Kona coffee farm and see how coffee is harvested and produced
Location: Kona">
Cost: Free for most tours
Learn more: Kona">
Explore a safe haven for ancient law-breakers at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Location: Kona">
Cost: $5 per vehicle, $3 per individual on foot/bicycle
Fuel up like a local by ordering an ono (delicious) plate lunch
Location: Whole island
Cost: Around $7 to $10
Learn more: Plate">
Have a picnic lunch on a black (or green) sand beach
Location: Kau
Cost: Free
Learn more: Punaluu"> and Papakolea">