Hawaii hotels offering holiday discounts

— Hawaii's hotels are offering steep discounts to attract holiday visitors during the economic downturn.

Rooms at economy and moderate hotels are starting as low as $50.

Three-night stay package tours from some West Coast cities are available for under $400.

The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani in Waikiki has starting rates of $109 a night between Dec. 26 to Jan. 7.

Aqua Hotels & Resorts is charging $50 for a first night with a minimum three-night stay at its Waikiki properties. Additional nights start at $119 or $89, depending on the Aqua hotel.

Travel to Hawaii has slumped during the financial crisis of recent months and after Hawaii lost air service in the spring after two airlines went bankrupt.

State Tourism Liaison Marsha Wienert says she can't remember ever seeing such low hotel rates during the holidays.

In the past, Hawaii hotels have increased prices sharply during the Christmas/New Year peak periods.

Travelers can find information on discounts on Hawaii package trips, which include hotel and air travel, at the state's tourism Web site, www.gohawaii.com But comparison-shop by contacting individual hotels and airlines to check their best deals. Many hotels are offering free nights and other promotions.

Kristin Jackson of The Seattle Times contributed to this report.