Dreaming of a tropical getaway, but hesitant to take what seems like an indulgent vacation? Ever-lower airfares and deep discounts on Hawai‘i hotel rooms are bringing the islands of aloha within reach for many families. Go shake those coins out of your vacation piggy bank – that white sandy beach might be closer than you think!

1. Learn to Hula
Mana Hawai`i at Waikiki Beach Walk, Fridays from 10 to 11 a.m.

Germaine Haili knows her hula – and she’s happy to share it with you. Keiki (children) and adults alike will get in the hula groove by practicing basic steps and learning a simple hula, too.  

2. Stroll Kalakaua Avenue
Kalakaua Avenue near the International Marketplace, nightly after dusk

Bordering the popular International Marketplace on one side, Kalakaua Avenue comes to life after the sun sets, when a continually changing roster of street performers lights up the night.

From steel drums and basketball tricks to the stock-still golden “statue” that’s actually a real guy, kids will delight in the chance to stay up past their bedtime to partake in the fun.

3. Fireworks and Torches
Hilton Hawaiian Village, Fridays at 8 p.m. for fireworks, nightly at 6 p.m. for torch lighting

The Hilton Hawaiian Village lights up Waikiki Beach with fireworks every Friday evening, with a show that lasts about ten minutes. For another way to light up the night, watch the Torch Lighting Ceremony that signals the end of the day. Conch shells blow and torches are lit throughout the grounds to the rhythm of Island drums.

4. Manoa Falls
The end of Manoa Road in Honolulu

Just 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Honolulu, a tropical rainforest awaits you. This easy – though slightly rough – hike takes you through bamboo groves and under the canopy of lush vegetation. At the end of the 3/4-mile long trail, Manoa Falls cascades 150 feet down a vertical face into a crystal clear pool, giving you a glimpse of hidden Hawaii. When: Daily, but only when it’s dry. Flash floods are a real possibility.

5. Kamaka Shop Tour
550 South Street, Tuesday-Friday 10:30 a.m.

The ‘ukulele is pure Hawaii, and the islands are home to numerous ‘ukulele manufacturers. Kamaka Hawai‘i builds ‘ukuleles right in Honolulu, where they offer free tours of their facilities so you can see how these instruments are made.  Call to verify; 808-531-3165.

Manoa Falls photo courtesy of dilworthdesigns.

Planning a trip to the islands? For more free events, discounts and deals to help plan a vacation to fit your budget, visit Honolulu on the Cheap and Big Island on the Cheap where writers Leslie Lang and Kris Bordessa share the inside scoop on Hawai‘i’s best bargains.

Recent posts by this author

• Extraordinary Islands for Family Vacations
• The Atlantic (the magazine, not the ocean)
• Family Travel Links Worth Clicking
• Packing Your Own Airplane Busy Bag
• 5 Tips for Holiday Family Road Trips