UPDATE: Check out our new Kama'aina Discount Page for even more great information on getting local deals for Hawaii Residents.

If your a local resident on the islands, your called Kamaaina, pronounced Ka-ma-I-na. With that comes some deals that are actually quite nice. I am not sure why this tradition was started, maybe its the Aloha spirit, either way its a good thing. If you do live on the islands don't delay in getting a local ID.

Getting a Local Hawaiian ID

In order to get your local ID you must go through the local government. Although I haven't dealt much with governments on the mainland I can say that the Hawaiian government takes the laid back spirit to a whole new level. Also one thing to remember is that you only have to have to reside on the islands, even if you've only been here a week as long as you plan on residing on the islands.

First off check times before you go, and then add 30 minutes to the opening, and subtract 30 minutes from the close time. Now you have a better idea of the hours of operation. Next make sure you bring your social security card and your drivers license or other form of identification. Note that in order to get your Local Hawaiian ID (or resident card) you need your social security card. If you don't have one these you can pick up a temporary card at thelocal Federal Building. In Honolulu its located next to Restaurant Row, Room 1-114 300 Ala Moana Blvd. Check the hours before going, they probably will change.

All you have to do then is just fill out a form, wait a few minutes, get a picture taken, wait a few more minutes, then you're done. For more information visit the Hawaii government Local ID web page.

Once you have it there are many things you can get if you show it. Don't be afraid to ask if there's a Kamaaina discount, most tourist and state run functions offer them and they're usually pretty good. Especially if you play golf.

Golfing

With your Hawaii State ID card you can get amazing deals on rounds of golf. Most of the time the cost reduction is more than 50%. I use perk of the ID the most. Usually once you use the ID two or three times at a course they'll remember you and you don't have to keep pulling out your ID. You can also get a local golf ID but on Oahu that only saves you money on the six county courses. For more info on these courses visit the City and County Course Home Page.

Some of the best rates that I've found are at the following course. Remember these are just a few, almost all courses have some discount for those with a Hawaii State ID.

Visit our Golfing on Oahu section for more info.

Ko'olau -
Olomana -
Ko'olina -
Luana Hills -

Hotels

Luckily as a local with a Hawaii State ID you won't have to pay outrageous rates for nice hotels. Most hotels nice or not have deals for locals, although there are usually seasonal blockout times which can vary. One of the best deals, if you can call it that, is on the island of Kauai.

For anyone who has been to Kauai they know it can be a bit expensive, especially in the resort towns of Princeville and Poipu. Both of these towns, on opposite shores, have gorgeous ocean side retreats, both have rooms that start at over $400 a night, and both are always packed. With your Hawaii State ID you can get these rooms for half off. Although there are cheaper hotels on the island than $200 a night it can be nice to treat yourself to one of these hotels.

In Waikiki on the island of Oahu the deals aren't as good as on the other islands, but you still get a break. Since Kim and I live in Waikiki this is a nice option when we have people visit. We are able to get them a decent discount, usually about $25-$50, and also get them out of our small, small place. Just remember to call ahead because more often than not these hotels are full and you aren't likely to get a very good deal.

Hanauma Bay

You can use your new Hawaii State ID at one of the best snorkel spots in the Pacific. Although Hanauma Bay costs only $5 without the ID, and only $1 for parking, with your ID you can get in for free. Parking is still $1 but you can eliminate that cost by parking at some of the nearby parks and biking or walking up. We also suggest a donation every once in a while to help with the upkeep but that's up to you.

Na Hoku II - Booze Cruise

If your looking for a fun time in Waikiki, wanna see the sunset, or have some drinks out on the ocean then we suggest the booze cruise. You don't really need you State ID you just have to be a returing customer. Whether your from out of town or a resident of Hawaii, just head down Dukes, wander to the beach, look for captain John John and grab a Mai Tai. We also suggest the sunset booze cruise. It tends to go longer and by this time the crew is getting drunk, the people are fun, and you might get a few more discounts.

Luaus at Paradise Cove

Paradise Cove is a great Luau with lots of fun activities to keep you busy. Also if you have a Hawaii State ID your in luck. You can get yourself and 4 guests in for a discounted price. This is a great way to entertain guests and to save a few bucks on something most people are going to try at least once on the islands. You can call 808-842-5911 to get the most current rates. Also check out our review here, and check out their website at www.paradisecovehawaii.com.

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center also has a Luau that you can go to with the whole Polynesian Cultural Center experience. They too offer a Kamaaina discount for those of you with your Hawaii State ID. For current rates call 808-293-3333. They also offer an annual pass if you plan on going often.