Under $100: Oahu

Start your day with a Honolulu classic — a malasada from Leonard’s Bakery, easily recognized as the best in Hawai’i. The longstanding institution has been turning out these Portuguese doughnuts since 1953. Malasadas are $1.15 each. If you have a real sweet tooth, you can also find a variety of other more traditional doughnuts, cookies, cakes, pies, pastries and bread.

Oahu offers plenty to do for every traveler, whether your interests lie in history, culture or adventure. The obvious can’t-miss is Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Tickets to both the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and memorial are free.

USS Arizona Memorial © Gavril Margittai | Dreamstime

To explore a bit of Hawai’i’s native culture, try Iolani Palace, once the official residence of the Hawai’ian monarchy. The palace was built in 1882 by King Kalakaua and also housed his successor, Queen Liliuokalani. Entrance is $15.

Go local and order a Hawai’ian plate lunch to hold you over until dinner. The state staple includes rice, macaroni salad and your choice of protein, from fried chicken to hamburger steak to Korean barbecue. A quick, budget-friendly and easy favorite is Zippy’s and you can find 24 locations all over Hawai’i.

Le’ahi, Diamond Head Crater © Windwardskies | Dreamstime

For adventurers, Oahu boasts 35 hiking trails. The most breathtaking is Diamond Head. The trail is steep and not exactly easy, but the views of the shoreline and ocean are well worth the trek. Entrance to the park is $5 per car or $1 per person if arriving on foot.

Treat yourself to a dinner well earned at MW Restaurant, where you’ll find updated takes on regional cuisine. The dinner menu starts at $32 and includes delectable options such as miso-honey glazed butterfish and Kona lobster carbonara.