Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, often comes with a hefty price tag. However, travel expert Sami Lukis offers a simple yet effective tip to significantly reduce expenses during your Hawaiian getaway: utilize the ubiquitous ABC convenience stores.
These stores, numbering around 60 across the Hawaiian Islands, are particularly concentrated in popular tourist areas. Waikiki alone boasts 40 locations within a two-kilometer stretch, making them nearly impossible to miss.
Affordable Options at ABC Stores
ABC Stores provide a wide range of products, including souvenirs, snacks, hot meals, salads, fresh fruit, alcohol, beachwear, toiletries, and coffee—all at prices lower than those found in many local restaurants and shops.
As holiday expenses can quickly add up with $10 beers, $15 cocktails, and $20 hamburgers, the savings from shopping at ABC Stores can help keep your budget in check. For families, the cost of drinks and snacks can escalate rapidly, making these stores an invaluable resource.
While indulging in traditional Hawaiian experiences, such as sipping a Mai Tai at the Royal Hawaiian during sunset or enjoying a luau, is essential, ABC Stores are ideal for those moments when you need to refuel or cool down without breaking the bank.
Sample Prices at ABC Stores
For those wondering about costs, here’s a snapshot of prices at ABC Stores in U.S. dollars:
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Food & Drink:
- Six-pack of 500ml spring water: $7.49
- Sandwich: $8.29
- Bacon & eggs with fried potatoes: $10.49
- Hamburger and fries: $11.99
- Hot dog: $2.29
- Six cans of Coke: $6.99
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Alcohol:
- 12 cans of Heineken: $21.99
- Two cans of pre-mixed Pina Colada or Mai Tai: $11
- Single serve glasses of wine: $3
- Jack Daniel’s and Coke premix: 2 for $11
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Souvenirs & Beach Gear:
- T-shirts (4 for $20)
- Mask and snorkel set: $15
- Beach umbrella: $20
- Boogie board: $30
For comparison, a gourmet sandwich at the Cheesecake Factory is priced at $18.95, and a classic burger costs $19.95.
ABC Store’s Legacy
The first ABC Store opened in Waikiki in 1964 and is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Originally named “Mr. K” by founder Sidney Kosasa, the store’s name was changed to ABC for ease of remembrance.
With 12 locations on Maui, five on the Big Island, and three on Kauai, ABC Stores are also making their mark in Las Vegas, where the Hawaiian community is notably large.
For travelers seeking to stretch their budget while enjoying all that Hawaii has to offer, remembering the ABC Stores will certainly help keep expenses manageable.
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