A new KAYAK survey finds that people will travel far and wide in 2009. We think a good number of them may be heading to Hawai‘i. And with good reason. Lower airfares and deep discounts on Hawai‘i hotel rooms are bringing the islands of aloha within reach for many families. Visitors to O‘ahu will find that Honolulu offers plenty of free activities to help keep the costs down once you arrive.

Here are just a few:

Learn to Hula: Germaine Haili knows her hula – and she’s happy to share it with you. Keiki (children) and adults alike will get in the hula groove by practicing basic steps and learning a simple hula, too.

When: Fridays, 10 to 11 am
Where: Mana Hawai`i at Waikiki Beach Walk

Stroll Kalakaua Avenue: Bordering the popular International Marketplace on one side, Kalakaua Avenue comes to life after the sun sets, when a continually changing roster of street performers lights up the night. From steel drums and basketball tricks to the stock-still golden “statue” that’s actually a real guy, kids will delight in the chance to stay up past their bedtime to partake in the fun.

When: Nightly, after dusk
Where: Kalakaua Avenue near the International Marketplace

Fireworks and Torches: The Hilton Hawaiian Village lights up Waikiki Beach with fireworks every Friday evening, with a show that lasts about ten minutes. For another way to light up the night, watch the Torch Lighting Ceremony that signals the end of the day. Conch shells blow and torches are lit throughout the grounds to the rhythm of Island drums.

When: Fridays at 8 pm for fireworks; Nightly at 6 pm for torch lighting
Where: Hilton Hawaiian Village

Manoa Falls: Just 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Honolulu, a tropical rainforest awaits you. This easy – though slightly rough – hike takes you through bamboo groves and under the canopy of lush vegetation. At the end of the 3/4-mile long trail, Manoa Falls cascades 150 feet down a vertical face into a crystal clear pool, giving you a glimpse of hidden Hawaii.

When: Daily, but only when it’s dry. Flash floods are a real possibility.
Where: The end of Manoa Road in Honolulu

Kamaka Shop Tour: The ‘ukulele is pure Hawaii, and the islands are home to numerous ‘ukulele manufacturers. Kamaka Hawai‘i builds ‘ukuleles right in Honolulu, where they offer free tours of their facilities so you can see how these instruments are made.

When: Tuesday-Friday, 10:30 am (call to verify; 808-531-3165)
Where: 550 South Street, Honolulu