As a popular tourist destination, Waikiki, Hawaii is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. But for those planning a trip to this tropical paradise, one important question often comes to mind: what is the local currency used in Waikiki?As an expert on all things Waikiki, I am here to provide you with all the information you need to know about the local currency used in this beautiful Hawaiian city.
The Official Currency of Hawaii
The official currency of Hawaii is the US dollar. This means that the same currency used in the rest of the United States is also used in Waikiki. This makes it easy for travelers from the US and other countries that use the US dollar as their currency to visit Waikiki without having to worry about exchanging their money. However, it is important to note that while the US dollar is widely accepted in Waikiki, there are some places that may only accept cash or have a minimum amount for credit card transactions.It is always a good idea to have some cash on hand when exploring the city.
The Hawaiian Currency
While the US dollar is the official currency of Hawaii, there was once a time when the Hawaiian Kingdom had its own currency. The Hawaiian dollar was introduced in 1847 and was used until 1898 when Hawaii became a territory of the United States. The Hawaiian dollar was made up of coins and banknotes, with designs featuring Hawaiian monarchs such as King Kamehameha III and Queen Liliuokalani. Today, these coins and banknotes are considered valuable collectibles and can be found in museums and private collections.Exchanging Currency in Waikiki
If you are traveling to Waikiki from a country that does not use the US dollar, you will need to exchange your currency for US dollars. The best place to do this is at a bank or currency exchange office.These can be found in most major cities and airports. It is important to note that exchanging currency at the airport may come with higher fees and less favorable exchange rates. It is always a good idea to shop around and compare rates before exchanging your money. In Waikiki, there are also many ATMs where you can withdraw cash using your debit or credit card. However, be aware that these may also come with fees and may have daily withdrawal limits.
Using Credit Cards in Waikiki
Credit cards are widely accepted in Waikiki, making it easy for travelers to make purchases without having to carry large amounts of cash. However, it is always a good idea to inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card in a different location. It is also important to note that some businesses in Waikiki may only accept certain types of credit cards, so it is always a good idea to have multiple options available.Tipping in Waikiki
Tipping is a common practice in the United States, including in Waikiki.It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for services such as haircuts or massages. It is also common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping and bellhops. When tipping, it is important to check your bill as some restaurants may automatically include a gratuity charge. If you receive exceptional service, it is always appreciated to leave a little extra for your server.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the official currency of Waikiki, Hawaii is the US dollar. While there was once a time when Hawaii had its own currency, today the US dollar is widely accepted and used in the city.It is always a good idea to have some cash on hand and to inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans before visiting Waikiki. With this information in mind, you can now confidently explore all that Waikiki has to offer without having to worry about currency exchange.
