First-time visitors often overlook fees, taxes, and everyday costs that quickly pile up. From mandatory resort charges to surprise parking rates and even the cost of sunscreen, Hawaii has a way of nickel-and-diming travelers if they're not prepared.

Here’s what you need to know to avoid sticker shock when your credit card bill arrives after paradise.

Resort Fees: The Price of Paradise Comforts

Most mid-range to upscale hotels and even some budget-friendly spots charge a daily resort fee, whether or not you use the amenities. These can run anywhere from $30 to over $60 per night, per room.

What do you get for that? Usually Wi-Fi, towel service, beach rentals, and local phone calls. Sometimes it's a shell lei greeting and access to a fitness center or yoga class—but don't expect to opt out. This fee is mandatory, and it adds up fast.

Hawaii’s Hotel Taxes and New Green Fee

Hawaii tacks on a state hotel tax (10.25%), a general excise tax (around 4.712%), and now a new “green fee” in some areas aimed at protecting natural resources. As of 2024, certain counties—especially Maui—have introduced conservation-related charges for visitors staying overnight.

The green fee may be wrapped into your nightly rate or added at checkout, but either way, it’s becoming more common—and it’s not optional.

Parking: Not Always Free, Rarely Cheap

Most Hawaii hotels charge for parking, some condos too, and not just a few bucks. Expect $35–$65 per night for valet or self-parking. Even vacation rentals and condos that advertise “parking available” may charge separately.

Street parking? Good luck. It’s scarce, metered, and strictly enforced. Rent a car, and you’ll likely need to budget just as much to park it as to drive it.

Tip: Some hotels offer packages that include parking—worth asking about.

Car Rental Taxes, Fees, and Hidden Costs of a Hawaii Vacation

Renting a car in Hawaii can seem cheap—until you check out. On top of the base rate, you’ll pay:

Renting a car in Hawaii can seem cheap—until you check out. On top of the base rate, you’ll pay:

Airport facility fee

Vehicle registration recovery

Taxes on top of all of the above

Optional add-ons like Insurance, Car Seats, and Dropoff-fees

It’s not uncommon for a $60/day rental to balloon into $100 or more after all the extras.

What’s more, gas prices hover above the national average, especially on the neighbor islands.

Dining: Sticker Shock in Paradise

You’re on vacation—you’ll want to eat well. But remember, most restaurants automatically add a tip or service charge, especially for larger parties or hotel guests.

Quick breakfasts or snacks from a café can cost $20+ per person. A decent sit-down dinner? Easily $50–$100 per head, without alcohol.

Tip: Many vacation rentals come with kitchens. Shopping at Costco or Foodland and preparing a few meals at home can stretch your budget significantly.

Tips and Gratuities: Not Always Optional

In Hawaii, tipping is part of the culture. Here’s a rough guide

Bell staff: $2–$5 per bag

Valet: $3–$5 each time

Housekeeping: $3–$7 per day

Tour guides: $15–$20, depending on length and group size

Wait staff 20% (cash is better)

Tour guides: $5–$20 depending on length and group size

Booking a snorkel tour, ATV ride, or helicopter flight? You’ll pay state taxes, sometimes harbor fees, and possibly fuel surcharges. Equipment like snorkels, fins, or wet suits might not be included.

Even hikes into some popular areas now require reservations and entrance fees—like Waimea Valley or Hanauma Bay.

Incidentals You Didn’t Pack

Many visitors forget about TSA restrictions and end up buying pricey items after they land. Here are a few common culprits:

Sunscreen (reef-safe brands are required and more expensive)

Aloe for sunburns

Water shoes or reef-safe footwear

Hats or rash guards

Beach toys for kids