Hawaii drivers continue to pay some of the highest gas prices in the nation, with the statewide average rising slightly from last week, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. The conflict in the Middle East, disruptions affecting shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and uncertainty in global oil markets have contributed to volatility in fuel prices in recent months.
The statewide average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Hawaii is $5.63 per gallon, up 1 cent from last week and $1.15 from the same time last year. Hawaii’s highest recorded statewide average was $5.66 per gallon, set April 19, 2026.
The national average is $4.36 per gallon, down 5 cents from last week but up $1.25 from a year ago. Hawaii has the nation’s second-highest average gas price at $5.63 per gallon, behind California at $6.34. Washington ranks third at $5.46.
In Honolulu, regular unleaded averages $5.55 per gallon, up 1 cent from last week and $1.16 from the same time last year. Hilo’s average is $5.70 per gallon, up 1 cent from last week and $1.05 from a year ago. Hilo’s highest recorded average was $5.72 per gallon, set Oct. 6, 2026.
In Kahului, the average is $5.76 per gallon, up 5 cents from last week and $1.26 from a year ago. Lihue’s average is $5.88 per gallon, up 1 cent from last week and 91 cents from a year ago.
“While Hawaii’s gas prices remain elevated, drivers can take steps to save at the pump,” said AAA Hawaii spokesperson Kandace Redd. “Prices can vary by location, so it pays to shop around, compare prices and look for fuel discounts. The free AAA Mobile App can help drivers find nearby gas stations and compare prices before filling up.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on Oct. 8, averages are:
AAA Hawaii recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:
- Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no “jackrabbit starts.”
- Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
- Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner’s manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
- Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don’t use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner’s manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren’t required to use it.
- Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
- If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
- Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.