With Australians planning their 2026 escapes, Aqua-Aston Hospitality in Hawaii beckons with a big aloha. Although the exchange rate with the US dollar has seen better days, savvy travellers can enjoy an affordable vacay from the 10-hour flight to spacious beach stays.
The experts at Aqua-Aston have 5 top tips for Aussies wanting to experience Hawaiian hospitality without breaking the bank.
Tip 1
Sign up to loyalty programs and mailing lists for Hawaiian Airlines, Qantas, Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand to stay on top of amazing deals such as $999 AUD return or as low as $699 AUD when the sale stars align.
Heads up: keep an eye out for Hawaiian Airlines’ sales over the festive break.
Tip 2
Stay at apartment-style accommodation for a longer stay with the benefits of your own kitchen, and private or shared laundry facilities. Aqua-Aston Hospitality offers more than 20 properties across four Hawaiian islands that feel like a home away from home – but with better views. Staying in a prime location also means you can get around on foot and save on car hire or taxis. Four stays that are more wallet-friendly include:
- Aston Waikiki Sunset, O’ahu
- Aston at the Waikiki Banyan, O’ahu
- Aston Kaanapali Shores, Maui
- Aston at Papakea, Maui (with no resort fees)
Heads up: Aqua-Aston Hospitality will be offering a fourth night free for Hawaiian stays booked between 23 December 2025 and 5 January 2026 for travel dates of 23 December 2025 to 30 June 2026 – look out for their ‘Winter Sale 2026’.
Tip 3
Ask the locals for the cheapest, freshest eats. Sure, Hawaii has some phenomenal places to eat with fresh produce being plentiful and you can dine by the ocean when you want to splurge, but savvy travellers can also save while still satisfying their stomach.
Poke bowls are a Hawaii institution and the local sashimi you’ll often see served up, combined with a medley of fresh vegetables, make them a fantastic go-to. You can actually find a decent poke bowl at local markets and grocery stores such as Foodland across Hawaii’s major islands.
Any self-respecting Australian loves a food truck, and Hawaii has been amping up its thriving street food scene. Enjoy the atmosphere and savings of various food truck parks on the islands, including one located directly next to Aston Kaanapali Shores in Maui.
And, of course, make the most of your in-room kitchen for breakfast and when you’re sticking close to your Aston accommodation for the day.
Tip 4
Timing matters so head to Hawaii when it’s a little quieter – and with the weather consistently hovering around 30°C, you don’t have to worry about colder months. Many North Americans head to Hawaii in their winter and summer school holiday break, so if you plan around April (post Easter), May, September and October, you’re looking good for the most competitive rates. Remember to book in advance as well.
Tip 5
Experience the great outdoors. Enjoy the free beauty of Hawaii with its lush forests, idyllic beaches, vast mountains and volcanoes. As long as you’re smart (and safe) about it, you don’t need a tour guide to snorkel among turtles or to enjoy a hiking trail
But remember that good travel is about giving back to local communities, so choose local makers and locally owned shops where possible, especially for an authentic Hawaiian souvenir or gift.
Visit www.aquaaston.com
