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Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

Today, we will discuss where to go if Hawaii is too expensive. As a Hawaii Travel Agent, this is a question that I get fairly often, so it’s time to answer it with a full blog post!

If you’ve been following me for a while, you already know that Hawaii is my favorite place in the world. I specialize in Hawaii vacations for a reason: it’s truly paradise! That said, Hawaii vacations have become very expensive, and they may not be in everyone’s budget.

Between flights, car rentals, and resort costs, the total can add up fast, especially for families or groups. Plus, it’s easy to spend hundreds (and even thousands) on food and activities alone! If that sounds familiar, don’t worry! There are plenty of other destinations that offer similar vibes to Hawaii (think beaches, adventure, lush scenery, and relaxation) without the higher price tag.

If you’ve been dreaming of Hawaii but need something a little more affordable (or closer to home), here are five great alternatives to consider.

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a travel agent specializing in honeymoons. I’m one of the top travel agents for Hawaii, but I also book every other destination on this list regularly! Contact me today to figure out the best destination for your vacation or honeymoon.

guide to the Road to Hana

1. Costa Rica

If you love the adventure side of Hawaii, waterfalls, volcanoes, ziplining, and lush green landscapes, you’ll love Costa Rica.

Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

Like Hawaii, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places in the world, with two gorgeous coastlines, tropical rainforests, and even hot springs. You can start your day hiking near Arenal Volcano, spend the afternoon ziplining through the jungle, and end the day soaking in natural hot springs.

Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

Prefer beaches? Head to the Pacific Coast for surf towns like Tamarindo or the Caribbean side for laid-back vibes and fewer crowds.

Why Costa Rica is a great Hawaii alternative:
Costa Rica offers that same combination of natural beauty and adventure that Hawaii does, often for much less, especially during shoulder season.

2. Sandals Resorts (Caribbean)

If you’re planning a romantic getaway or honeymoon, the Sandals Resorts are a fantastic Hawaii alternative. While the upfront price may look similar to Hawaii, it’s important to remember that Sandals is truly all-inclusive. So all your meals, drinks (yes, even premium alcohol), water sports, and entertainment are included.

Sandals Resorts in Barbados

In addition, tipping isn’t allowed at Sandals, so the price you pay is truly the price you pay with no hidden surprises. There are a few things that are not included at Sandals Resorts, but not many!

Once you arrive, you can put your wallet away and just relax. Plus, flights to the Caribbean are often much cheaper and shorter than flights to Hawaii, especially from the East Coast or Midwest.

Sandals has beautiful properties across the Caribbean, including Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Barbados, and the Bahamas. St. Lucia is going to be the most “Hawaii-like,” and you have three resorts to choose from, all with a different vibe. Check out Sandals Resorts locations to see where they all are.

If you’re planning a family trip, Beaches Resorts are an excellent alternative to Hawaii at a lower price point.

Why St. Lucia is a great Hawaii alternative:

You’ll get the same tropical, romantic, luxury vibe, but usually at a lower price point.

Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

I’m a certified Sandals Gold Specialist, so if you’re not sure which resort fits you best, I can help you choose the perfect one based on your preferences and budget.

3. The U.S. Virgin Islands

If your Hawaii dream is more about turquoise water, soft sand, and island-hopping, check out the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.

You’ll find world-class snorkeling, incredible beaches like Trunk Bay, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Plus, you can easily ferry between islands to experience a bit of everything.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a great alternative to Hawaii because they’re tropical and easy to get to from the mainland U.S., and no passport is needed for U.S. citizens!

Travel tip: St. John is perfect if you want a quieter, more natural experience (two-thirds of the island is a national park), while St. Thomas has more shopping and resorts.

Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

4. Mexico (Riviera Maya or Puerto Vallarta)

If you’re looking for sun, sand, and great food, Mexico is hard to beat. It’s one of my favorite destinations for travelers who want an easy, affordable getaway, especially if all-inclusive is important to you.

what to pack for Cancun

The Riviera Maya (south of Cancun) is great for beaches, snorkeling in cenotes, and exploring Mayan ruins. On the other hand, Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast has lush green mountains if that is more your vibe.

You can find everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly all-inclusives, and flights to Mexico are usually much cheaper than flights to Hawaii.

Some Cancun travel ideas:

Hotel Zone cancun

5. The Florida Keys

If you want that “island life” feeling but don’t want to leave the mainland, the Florida Keys are a great choice.

Drive the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West for one of the most scenic road trips in the U.S. Along the way, stop to snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, relax in Islamorada, or grab a slice of key lime pie (because you have to!).

Where to Go if Hawaii Is Too Expensive

The Keys have turquoise water, coral reefs, and a laid-back, tropical feel, all without needing to fly across the Pacific.