Under $100: Po’ipu, Kaua’i

Sunny Po’ipu, the region comprising welcoming beaches and an array of hotels and restaurants along Kaua’i’s south shore, is an ideal place to launch a vacation filled with adventures around the island.

If you’re spending a day here, start with breakfast at Red Salt at the Ko’a Kea resort. The excellent buffet focuses on plenty of local produce and will fill you up for an active day. Budget $26 for an adult.

Spend some time in the morning exploring the beaches, where options like Po’ipu Beach are family-friendly, easy to park and offer great snorkeling, sun bathing and swimming. Rent snorkel gear at any number of establishments, including in Koloa or at Ko’a Kea Resort, which generally costs around $10.

For lunch, check out Koloa town’s food truck options, where you can fill up on authentic Mexican tacos or Thai food for around $10 per person.

Spend the afternoon on the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, a coastal hike that will take you four miles round-trip along stark cliffs and pristine, uncrowded beaches. Bring your snorkel gear. Save time to stop at the fascinating Makauwahi Sinkhole, where a free tour will give you an overview, though you can consider dropping a couple of dollars in the donation box.

For dinner, your remaining $50 will serve you well at Keoki’s Paradise, which offers a cheaper bar with pupus (appetizers) and a more upscale dinner option. Live music and great drinks to boot.