Fuel costs make Hawaii even pricier

Visitors to Hawaii may be in for a surprise — the high cost of getting around doesn’t end after that long and expensive airline flight from the mainland. From air travel to exotic sea expeditions, rising fuel prices are making a Hawaii vacation an even pricier affair.

Hawaii has the most expensive gas prices in the country, and many of those escalating costs are passed on to unsuspecting tourists. The average for a gallon of regular gas here this summer is nearly $3.40, according to AAA’s fuel gauge report.

“It’s forced everybody to raise their prices a little bit,” said Dan Peavy, owner of Aqua Adventure Charters on Maui, which offers snorkeling and diving trips. “Most people don’t even realize it.” Peavy said he raised prices by $4 per person this year to help offset the extra money spent to fuel the boats that take visitors out to sea.

Helicopter journeys around the islands also have become even more costly due to fuel costs. At Sunshine Helicopters on Maui, trip prices have increased between $30 and $55. Even everyday items that a visitor might buy at a convenience store near the beach will take a few more pennies out of your wallet.

Twelve-ounce soft drinks, lettuce and rice all cost a few cents more since shipping company Matson Navigation raised its fuel surcharge.

Hawaii’s cab fares are also among the highest in the country — 30 cents for every eighth of a mile, with a $2.25 minimum. The tourism industry has been thriving in Hawaii despite the rising prices.

AP