West End Molokai on a Budget

Most people would think that a vacation in Hawaii is going to cost them several thousands of dollars. They are correct. That is, if they wanted to have a luxurious holiday complete with all the pampering amenities that will make them feel like a member of a royal delegation.

Going to West End Molokai, however, is not all about having the most elegant accommodations. You are heading off to this area of Hawaii for the surf, the sand, the sun, and the fun. Come to think of it--surf, sand, sun, and fun (or relaxation) are all free, right? So why do you have to spend that much in Molokai?

Of course, you have to spend on fare, accommodations, food, and other miscellaneous expenses, but those do not have to be costly or way over your budget. Here are ways on how you can still spend your vacation in West Molokai even if you have a tight budget:

1. Schedule your vacation during the off-peak season.

Most of the establishments in West Molokai have different rates, be it the peak vacation season or the off-peak season. You can always look for those that offer discounted rates for traveling during the less busy season. Comparison shopping is always the best advice wherever you choose to stay in Molokai or the rest ogf Hawaii.

Another advantage of visiting West End Molokai during the off-peak season is that the hotels, condominiums, and villas are not fully booked. You will have a lot of options when it comes to accommodations and the facilities that you need during your stay. When booking for accommodations in Molokai, you have to note the minimum duration of stay. Some villas will require you to book for a minimum of three nights. Others require one week.

Ka Hale Mala is one of less expensive yet spacious rental houses. A night in a four-room apartment will cost you about $90. With breakfast, it will be a little over a hundred dollars.

2. Travel in groups.

If you travel in groups, there is a possibility of getting travel and accommodation discounts. It would be best if you plan your trip with your family and friends so that you can just stay in a single villa. Some villas have two to three rooms that can accommodate up to 12 persons.

3. Inquire with travel agencies.

Some travel agencies have tie-ups with airlines or condominiums. Booking your travel with them can help you save on making your travel arrangements on your own. You also save time from contacting each of these establishments.

If this is your first time to visit Hawaii, it may really be best if you have a travel agency book your travel and accommodations for you. Some travelers say that Molokai is for the people who would like to see more of the Hawaiian life and culture. There are times when you need to be independent and adventurous.

4. Prepare your own food.

If you are a staying in a rental house in West End Molokai, most likely, you have access to kitchen and laundry facilities. Take advantage of having access to all these things.

Taking your meals at the restaurants is one of the surest ways to immediately deplete your vacation budget. Buy some fresh foods and prepare your meals at your own accommodation. Bring a Hawaiian cuisine cookbook, and have your own take at the local recipes. If you are not that skilled when it comes to cooking, even the basic egg and sandwich recipes can still save you a lot of money.

Even if you usually prepare your own food, spend at least one meal in a local restaurant. Your adventure in West Molokai will never be complete if you were not able to try their local cuisines. Try their steaks, seafoods, and vegetable recipes at the Maunaloa Room, one of the popular restaurants in West Molokai. It is found at the Molokai Ranch Lodge where you can also do a lot of sightseeing and land adventures.

5. Rent a tent and camp outdoors.

If you are an outdoor lover, sleeping in a tent is probably not something new for you. You may rent a tent and spend your night at a campsite. However, before you do that, you need to inquire about the necessary permits for pitching a tent and the fees that you will need to pay. Of course, staying in a tent is much, much cheaper than spending your night in a villa.

For more information, you may contact the State Division of Parks at 808-567-6618.

6. Bring all your necessities.

Plan your trip so that you know the type of activities that you will be doing in West Molokai. If you intend to spend most of your time by the beach, then you need to prepare your swimsuits, sunscreen, hats, and towels. If you own a snorkel, you might want to take yours instead of renting one.

On the other hand, if you would also like to have some land adventure, you will also need to bring the appropriate clothes. For horseback riding and camping, make sure that you have sufficient protection for accidents and insect bites. If you intend to bike around the area, it would help if you bring your biking apparel such as your gloves, your elbow pads, and kneepads.

If you are under medication, it will also be best to have your prescription filled before you leave for your trip. Drugstores in Molokai might not carry the same drug or have the same brand. The price might not also be the same. Regardless of the situation, you still need to take your prescriptions with you. These documents will help the attending doctor in case of medical emergencies.

7. Pack lightly.

In order to choose the least expensive mode of travel and accommodation, it is best if you pack lightly. In the previous tips, we advise you to take your necessities, but this doesn't mean that you have to take unnecessary stuff with you. By taking only what is necessary, you can save on the airline and other transportation expenses. How would you like it if you can travel the island without leaving any stuff at the hotel?

8. Limit your shopping.

Because of the warm smiles of the native Hawaiians in Molokai, the beautiful sights and your wonderful experiences, it's really tempting to take as much of West Molokai with you as possible on your way back to the mainland. While a few souvenirs for yourself and your friends are good, always set a budget on how much you can spend on shopping for souvenirs. Instead of buying a lot of souvenirs that you will just later on sell in a garage sale, take a lot of pictures. These are the best reminders of your adventures and your relaxing stay in West Molokai. And while taking those pictures, don't forget to take in and experience the beautiful surroundings of the western portion of the island.

Molokai is one of the undiscovered treasures of Hawaii. West End Molokai, which is even more secluded, gives you an experience of the native Hawaiian culture that is not much influenced by commercialization and modernization. Many people say that the island is best for tourists who are seeking to learn and experience more of the Hawaiian traditions and lifestyle. Although these experiences are priceless, they should not cost you a fortune. Learn to make the right decisions for your trip, and you will definitely enjoy your adventure and your stay in West End Molokai even while on a shoestring budget.

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