Accomodation options

Question

My 18 year old is travelling to Honolulu to be a referee at a rugby tournament in April.The organisers have agreed to pay accommodation for 5 nights but he wants to explore while he is there and stay an extra few nights.He is a student and so looking for cheap and cheerful accomodation and places to eat on his extra days.Does anyone know of places that rent out a spare room/sleepout/offer cheap nice sleeping options as the accomodation in NZ dollars is prohibitive to finding decent accomodation.Also,places to eat that are healthy and filling for a teen on a budget also appreciated please.thanks

Answer

For an 18-year-old student looking for affordable accommodations in Honolulu while exploring on his own, there are several options that balance budget, safety, and proximity to Waikiki and central Honolulu. While Hawaii can be pricey, focusing on hostels, shared rooms, or short-term rentals can make the stay manageable.

Accommodation options:

Hostels: Waikiki has a few reputable hostels that offer dorm-style or private rooms at reasonable rates. Examples include the Waikiki Beachside Hostel and Polynesian Hostel Beach Club. These are generally clean, social, and safe for solo travelers, with common kitchens for cooking to save on food costs.
Airbnb / Vrbo: Renting a private room or a small studio can often be cheaper than hotels, especially for a few extra nights. Look for listings in neighborhoods near Waikiki or Ala Moana for convenience and safety.
Budget hotels / motels: Places like the Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki or Pagoda Hotel sometimes have lower rates and basic amenities. These can be more expensive than hostels but still cheaper than full-service hotels.
University dorms or short-term rentals: Occasionally, universities like the University of Hawaii offer summer or short-term dorm rentals, which can be a very budget-friendly and safe option for students.

For food on a budget while staying healthy and filling:

Plate lunch spots: Many local spots offer plate lunches with rice, veggies, and protein for under $15. Examples: Rainbow Drive-In, Helena’s Hawaiian Food.
Poke shops: Poke bowls are nutritious, filling, and widely available in Waikiki and Ala Moana. Try Ono Seafood or Poke Stop for affordable portions.
Grocery stores: Safeway, Foodland, or Costco (if you have a membership) offer prepared foods, sandwiches, fruit, and snacks. Buying breakfast and some meals to prepare can save a lot.
Food trucks and casual spots: Look for trucks along Ala Moana Blvd or near local beaches; they often have healthy, inexpensive options including grilled fish, chicken bowls, and salads.

Tips:

Book accommodation early, as April is a busy season and rates rise quickly.
Staying near public transit or within walking distance of Waikiki makes getting around easy without a car.
Consider cooking some meals in hostels or Airbnbs with kitchen access to save money and eat healthier.

With these options, your teen can enjoy a safe, budget-friendly stay, explore the city, and have access to affordable and healthy meals.