SoFi

Payday loans are also called cash advance loans, deferred deposit loans, post-dated check loans, or check advance loans. They are short-term, high-interest loans. People who use these loans tend not to have access to other types of lending, and this is a last resort to get them through to the next paycheck.

Many states consider these loans predatory because of their high interest rates and financing fees. Some states place caps on the fees and interest rates or ban this type of lending completely.

Read on to find out what a payday loan is, how they work, and other options for those who need a short-term loan or cash advance.

What Is a Payday Loan?

Payday loans, also known as cash advances, are high-interest, short-term loans, typically for $500 or less. They are notorious for having very high interest rates and fees. There are few payday loan requirements, but borrowers typically need to be over 18, have a checking account in good standing, and show that they earn a secure income.

Consumers can find these types of loans through online lenders, apps, and local brick-and-mortar merchants. The loan amount is typically paid back by direct debit once the borrower receives their next paycheck. Alternatively, loans may be secured with a post-dated check.

How Does a Payday Loan Work?

Consumers fill out an application with a lender and show proof of identity, a recent pay stub, and a bank account number if required.

Borrowers have to secure the loan with a post-dated check or agree to have the funds debited from their account when they are paid, usually in two weeks. Loans are usually between $50 and $1,000, and funds are deposited within a day or two. Borrowers can also receive cash.

People with bad credit and access to better financing tend to use these loans to help them get by temporarily. However, payday loan problems are well-known: High interest rates and exorbitant fees can trap someone in spiraling debt if they cannot repay the loan on time.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau states, “More than four out of five payday loans are re-borrowed within a month, usually right when the loan is due or shortly thereafter.” Borrowers then face even higher financing fees and interest rates compounding their debt load.

Many states place caps on the interest rates and fees charged for payday loans; some states, such as New York, have outlawed them completely.

What Are the Requirements for a Payday Loan?

Most working adults qualify for a payday loan. Here are the most common standards.

Age

Borrowers must be at least 18 years of age.

Proof of Income

Applicants have to show proof of income, such as a pay stub.

Citizenship

Consumers may have to show proof of U.S. citizenship.

Bank Account

Borrowers need to have a bank account that is in good standing.

Payday Loan Interest Rates

Depending on the state, interest rates for payday loans can carry a 400% annual percentage rate (APR) or more.

In states that cap interest rates on payday loans, lenders may instead charge a fee that is a percentage of the amount loaned. Finance charges can be between $15 and $30 for each $100 borrowed.

Payday Loan Amounts

Payday loan amounts are usually $100 to $1,000. In some states, a borrower is allowed only one payday loan at a time. Other states, like Texas and Nevada, offer unlimited payday loans for customers.

Alternatives to a Payday Loan

Rather than take out a high-interest payday loan, there are better options for people in a precarious financial situation.

Credit Cards

If the borrower has a credit score, using a credit card is a safer bet than a payday loan. The average credit card interest rate is around 22%, while payday loan interest can be over 400%. However, if the borrower needs the cash to pay bills such as rent or utilities, that is often not possible with a credit card.

Cash Advance Loans

A cash advance loan puts cash immediately into your bank account. These loans are offered by online lenders, such as Earnin or PayActiv. These companies don’t charge loan financing fees but ask for “tips.” So, a borrower might tip between 5 and 15% of the advance. These apps are often marketed as payroll benefits, and they charge membership and service fees.

TSP Loans

A TSP account is a tax-deferred retirement savings and investment plan that offers Federal employees the same tax advantages as a 401(k) retirement plan. If you have a TSP retirement account, you can take out a loan from that plan without having to pay tax or penalties. However, you must pay the amount back to the account within five years with interest (which will be much lower than the interest on a payday loan).

Personal Loans

For consumers with a good credit score, banks and online lenders offer unsecured or secured personal loans. Unsecured loans are not backed by any collateral and will have a higher interest rate than a secured loan, but not as high as a payday loan.

Unexpected expenses can be paid for with a personal loan and at a lower interest rate. Many people take out personal loans to pay off credit card debt because the interest rate on a personal loan is less than the interest rate paid on their credit card debt. Getting approved for a personal loan isn’t hard if you have good credit.

Loan payback terms can be between two to seven years, with loan amounts typically between $1,000 and $50,000. If you manage the payments on a personal loan responsibly, you can build up a strong credit history. That is not the case with a payday loan, which is not reported to credit rating bureaus.

Recommended: What Is a Personal Loan?

The Takeaway

Payday loans are short-term loans that cash-strapped consumers use to get by until their next paycheck. The borrower is expected to repay the loan on their next payday, or they may submit a post-dated check. Interest rates are extremely high because of the risk to the lender that the borrower will default. Unfortunately, this is often the case, and borrowers can find themselves spiraling into debt as interest and fees accumulate. For this reason, many states have banned payday loans.

Payday loans are probably the worst option for quick cash. But a SoFi Personal Loan offers fixed, competitive interest rates on loans from $5K to $100K. And there are no fees ever.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2022 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

What are the requirements to get a payday loan?

Most working adults qualify for a payday loan. A borrower needs to be 18 or over, show proof of income (a paystub) and citizenship, and have a bank account.

Is proof of income a requirement for a payday loan?

A lender requires proof of income because they want to know you have the means to pay the loan back. A recent pay stub or similar documentation is typically enough.

Is taking out a payday loan a good idea?

Basically, no. A payday loan should only be used as a last resort, and if you are sure you can pay back the loan in two weeks. Even then, the interest you will pay will be much higher than a cash advance or a short-term loan from an online lender.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

SOPL0322008

Read more

Today’s burgeoning bathroom trends range from bold color palettes to high-tech functions. Whether you’re gut-renovating a primary bathroom or freshening up a powder room, you’re bound to find plenty of inspiration at all price points and levels of difficulty.

Keep reading to find bathroom remodel ideas for 2022, plus tips on how to budget for the home spa of your dreams.

8 Bathroom Ideas for 2022

The dominant bathroom trends for 2022 skew modern in nature with clean lines, organic materials, and a lot of warm, natural wood. At the same time, some homeowners are taking cues from their grandmothers, incorporating throwbacks to the 1960s with pink tile and patterned wallpaper. Whichever route you take, there’s little denying these bathroom ideas 2022 have a little something for everybody.

For a deeper dive into the topic, check out our guide to bathroom remodels.

1. Opt for an All-in-One Shower and Bath

Price: Moderate
Difficulty: High
Style: Contemporary

Functionality is at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds. And what’s more functional than a bathtub that doubles as a shower? It saves space and can be more economical than adding two separate bathing areas. Prepare to spend $1,100-$5,500 to remodel a shower alone, whereas a shower-tub combo costs around $1,400-$1,600, including fixtures and modifications.

Recommended: The Cost To Repair a Plumbing Leak

2. Choose Earthy, Organic Styles

Price: Low to Moderate
Difficulty: Moderate
Style: Contemporary

Gone are the days when subway tile was the only way to decorate a shower enclosure. In 2022 bathroom trends, tile is more tactile and natural. To mix things up, consider stacking tile vertically during layout, then enclosing it with a horizontal border.

Homeowners are opting for wooden tile for an organic look, often complementing it with white floor tile. Also on the rise: other natural materials in earthy tones that give the bathroom a sense of warmth.

3. Bring the Outdoors In

Price: Low
Difficulty: Easy
Style: Contemporary

In addition to earthy tones, homeowners are adding more plants to their bathroom spaces. Lush greenery is an economical way to mimic the feel of a resort spa. In addition to floor and counter planters, consider hanging plants from the ceiling in locations that enjoy natural light.

If you’ve got the budget to spare, merge indoors and out via a glass wall and outdoor rain shower.

4. Add Twin Showerheads

Price: Low
Difficulty: Moderate
Style: Contemporary

Adding side-by-side showerheads is one of many shower remodel ideas you may choose to add to your bath remodel. Not only does it add symmetry to your shower, but it allows more than one person to shower at a time. That can come in handy if you have children you’re trying to bathe simultaneously, or spouses who get ready for work at the same time.

5. Incorporate Creative Storage Solutions

Price: Moderate
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Style: Contemporary

If you live in an apartment or own a home with smaller bathrooms, finding new ways to add storage is at the top of many homeowners’ priority list. Perhaps you have an unused nook where you can add built-ins for toiletries and linens. Or you can replace a floating vanity with one that has under-sink storage. Built-ins and custom cabinetry can cause your bathroom budget to balloon, but they’re often worth the investment if space elsewhere in your home is at a premium.

6. Switch to a Bold Black Palette

Price: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Style: Contemporary

Black is back in bathroom trends 2022. Taking a page out of Scandinavian design (which is fond of mixing black with natural wood), interior designers are using black walls, floors, and stone to make a strong statement. Even bathroom fixtures are skewing dark with matte black tubs and faucets.

Love black but don’t want your entire bathroom to be a single color? Use black sparingly instead — on floor tile, a wooden wall covering, or a sink and toilet combo — and incorporating gold fixtures.

7. Go All Out with Color and Pattern

Price: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate
Style: Traditional

On the flip side of the sleek black trend is Grandma’s bubblegum-pink bathroom. Adding a splash of color to your bathroom is one way to up the wow factor. Dare to go all pink — from a clawfoot tub to dusty rose floor tile to a blush-dominant floral wallpaper. Or simply add a pink toilet as a statement piece. Want to test out this bathroom trend but wary of going too pink? Modern wallpaper patterns (think: flamingos and palm leaves) and geometric tile are two ways to walk the line between traditional and modern.

8. Go High-Tech

Price: Moderate
Difficulty: Moderate
Style: Contemporary

As home technology continues to advance, so do homeowners’ desires to operate everything via apps and devices. Many homeowners opt for wall-mounted digital interfaces that operate everything from the shower heads to stereo speakers. Adding heated flooring and high-tech bidets are also among the top bathroom ideas 2022.

Recommended: How To Pay for Emergency Home Repairs

How To Budget for Your Bathroom Reno

When researching materials, start with what you know you need: tile, faucet, paint, etc. For things like tile and paint, plan on purchasing 20% more than your square footage requires. Then consult DIY sites to make sure you include all the necessary incidentals to complete the project. For a DIY tiling project, for example, you’ll need grout, a grout float, thinset, sealant, drop cloths, etc. (Here’s some info on how to keep inflation from blowing your reno budget.)

The most expensive part of a bathroom reno is labor. If you’re hiring a contractor to do the work, expect 75% of your budget to go to the contractor(s). That’s because full bathroom updates require a number of specialists, such as plumbers, electricians, and tile installers. Even for smaller updates, a general contractor can cost $50-$75 an hour. (Learn more about how to find the right contractor.)

Finally, experts recommend adding a 20%-30% cushion to your overall budget to cover any unforeseen issues.

Keep Resale Value in Mind

The good news is that bathroom updates do increase your home’s value — but there are limits. Typical updates recoup about 70% of their cost, while upscale renos have a lower ROI of about 60%, according to the 2022 State of Remodeling in the U.S. survey.

The upshot: You’ll enjoy a better bang for your buck by keeping updates modest and avoiding anything too trendy or unique (ahem, black bathtub).

Consider Your Financing Options

Before you commit to any of these bathroom remodel ideas, you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to finance your home improvement project. A personal loan, credit card, savings, or HELOC are all ways you might finance your bathroom remodel. No matter how you pay for your bathroom upgrades, it’s wise to weigh your options and compare terms, conditions, and interest rates upfront.

The Takeaway

Some bathroom trends for 2022 are on the practical side, such as creative storage and side-by-side showerheads. Others are more daring, like switching to matte black fixtures. Whichever way your tastes lean, make sure you have the budget to do things right. It’s what’s behind the walls that really matters — to your family and potential homebuyers.

Don’t rely on credit cards to fund your reno. With a home improvement loan from SoFi, you can borrow up to $100,000 at a competitive fixed rate, and with no fees. So there’s no need to cut corners on your dream bathroom.

Check your rate in 60 seconds, and get your loan funded as soon as the same day you’re approved.^*

Personal Loan Tips

Tip 1

If you don’t have the cash to renovate or remodel your home, one financing option is a personal or home improvement loan, which can be faster and easier to secure than a construction loan.

Tip 2

In a climate where interest rates are rising, you’re likely better off with a fixed interest rate than a variable rate, even though the variable rate is initially lower. On the flip side, if rates are falling, you may be better off with a variable interest rate.

Tip 3

Just as there are no free lunches, there are no guaranteed loans. So beware lenders who advertise them. If they are legitimate, they need to know your creditworthiness before offering you a loan.

---

Photo credit: iStock/LeoPatrizi

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOPL0722016A

Read more

Seattle may be best known for rain and coffee, but it has so much more to offer and can make a terrific vacation destination. Popular things to do in Seattle include riding to the top of the Space Needle, visiting the Museum of Pop Culture, and strolling through the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. Seattle also has a few fun and unique things that you can’t find in most other cities, like the Gum Wall at Pike Place Market.

If you’re thinking you might like to head west to visit this city, check out this advice on the top things to do in the city, plus advice for making your visit a smooth, exciting, and memorable one.

Best Times to Go to Seattle

Spring, summer, and early fall are the best times to go to Seattle, with summer travel being the most popular. Temperatures during these times are pleasant, in the high 60s and low 70s, and there’s little rain.

There are plenty of festivals happening in the summer, too, which might be fun to check out while in Seattle, including:

•   Beyond Wonderland electronic music festival (June)

•   Northwest Tune-Up bike, beer, and music festival (July)

•   Capitol Hill Block Party music and arts festival (July)

•   Watershed country music festival (August)

Bad Times to Go to Seattle

Seattle is known as the “rainy city,” and fall and winter can be chilly and wet. November and December are the rainiest months of the year in Seattle.

However, if you’re on a budget, hotel prices may be lower during the winter. If you’re looking for how to save money on hotels in Seattle and you are focusing on indoor activities, then going during the off-season can be an affordable option.

Average Cost of a Seattle Vacation

Seattle can be an affordable city to visit, depending on how you travel. Typically, a one-week stay will cost around $1,364 for one person and $2,728 for two. Plan on daily costs of around $195. Some specifics to note:

•   A hotel in a central location like Downtown Seattle, near Pike Place Market, can be over $400 a night during peak season.

•   If you’re looking for cheaper hotels, then try neighborhoods outside of central Seattle, but you may need to rent a car for these.

•   If you’re saving up money ahead of time for a Seattle vacation trip, you may be wondering where to keep your travel fund. High-yield savings accounts and regular savings accounts are two popular places to keep your funds.

•   Although “book now pay later” travel options may be tempting, it can be more financially responsible to save money ahead of time so that you don’t pay extra in interest.

If you’re thinking about booking a trip to Seattle but are worried that you may have unforeseen circumstances and have to cancel your trip, you can look into travel insurance. If you pay for your trip with certain credit cards, they may provide travel insurance for certain situations. You should understand how credit card travel insurance works when deciding whether to purchase private travel insurance or use your credit card protections.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Seattle

There is a lot to do in Seattle, and fortunately, it’s a fairly walkable city. There are buses, streetcars, a light rail system, a monorail, ferries and water taxis to help you get around.

The following recommendations for the top 10 fun things to do while visiting Seattle are culled from frequent visitors to the city, residents, and the top-rated attractions based on online reviews. Ready? Here are some must-see destinations in the city.

1. Scale the Space Needle

Perhaps Seattle’s most visible iconic structure, the Space Needle was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair. From the top, you can see incredible views of the city through the glass walls of the structure.

The Space Needle is located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood. It’s open year-round, and hours vary by day and time of year; depending on the time and ticket type, costs vary between $22.50 and $42.50. Discount bundle packages are available for tickets for the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum and the Space Needle. spaceneedle.com/

2. Stroll Through Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is Seattle’s most famous market and is the most visited landmark in the city. The market is famous for fish, which has been sold there open-air since 1930, and you may know of the tradition of the catch of the day being thrown around by fishmongers. But the market also hosts many other vendors selling things like jewelry, artwork and clothing, plus all kinds of food, from candied salmon jerky to freshly fried donuts.

Pike Place Market stretches across nine acres within Seattle’s central business district. It’s one of the best free things to do in the city. Hours vary but most of Pike Place Market is active from 10 am to 5 pm, with some restaurants staying open later for dinner and some opening earlier for breakfast. Pike Place Market is open 7 days a week except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Pike Place Market is also home to the famous Gum Wall, which is a wall within an alleyway that is completely covered in chewing gum. The Gum Wall started in the 1990s when local patrons and performers would stick their used gum on the wall. It’s now a popular photo location.

Pike Place Market can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly. pikeplacemarket.org/about-pike-place-market/plan-your-visit/

3. Gaze at Gorgeous Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is a unique museum that showcases the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, who lives in Seattle. Both indoors and out, the museum shows off Chihuly’s brilliantly colored, fancifully shaped works which have been exhibited around the globe. The outdoor garden blends plants and flowers with glass pieces intertwined.

The museum is located next to the Space Needle at Seattle Center in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood. It’s generally open from around 10 am to around 6 pm year-round. Depending on the date and ticket type, costs range from $22.50 to $37.50. Discount bundle packages are available for tickets for the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum and the Space Needle; you may want to put these costs on your favorite kind of plastic and earn credit card rewards. chihulygardenandglass.com/

4. Find the Fremont Troll

This famous troll statue, which is 18 feet tall, is under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle’s cool, indie Fremont neighborhood. It’s a fun photo-op, for sure, but you can also have fun popping into the neighborhood’s vintage stores and boutiques.

5. Take a Beneath the Streets Tour

Here’s one of the best things to do in Seattle for adults: Take a Beneath the Streets Tour. You’ll go underground and learn about the Red Light District. Basically, you’ll be immersed in the city’s early history of prostitution, drinking, gambling, and crime, which provides a fascinating glimpse at forbidden aspects of Seattle’s past, if you’re game for that.

The tour is available 7 days a week, except for Christmas day, with ticket prices running in the $25 to $27 range. beneath-the-streets.com/

Recommended: Credit Card Miles vs. Cash Back

6. Visit the Ballard Locks

Take a visit to the busiest lock system in the nation: The Ballard Locks (ballardlocks.org/) link the Puget Sound with Lake Washington and the Ship Canal. You can picnic nearby or just hang out and watch boats rise and fall with the waters of the lock system as they navigate to their next destination. It’s a cool, free thing to do while in Seattle. If you’re there in the summer, you can see the famous Salmon Ladder (ballardlocks.org/fish-salmon-ladder.html) in action, as three species of the fish rush through the network of water “ladders” to spawn upriver. Visitor Center hours vary by date.

7. Plug into Pop Culture

Here’s a fun thing to do in Seattle: Pop into the Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP, where you can learn more about culture today and in the recent past. Exhibits cover such tops as rock music (hello, Nirvana and Pearl Jam!) and science fiction and fantasy worlds.

The museum is open daily except for Wednesdays, between 10 am and 5 pm. Ticket prices vary by date, typically between $26.25 and $30.25. mopop.org/

8. Ride the Great Wheel

Want a stunning view of the city, plus a fun ride? The Seattle Great Wheel, located on Pier 57 in Seattle, ought to do the trick. It’s one of the largest Ferris wheels in North America, standing 175 feet tall and extending 40 feet out over Elliot Bay, so it’s quite literally a top thing to do in Seattle.

Bonus: It features fully enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas so you can climb aboard, no matter what the weather. As you go around, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and the Olympic Mountains, gaining an appreciation for the city’s unique location and its beauty.

The Seattle Great Wheel is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. It costs around $12 for youth to $17 for adults. seattlegreatwheel.com/

9. Wander Through the Washington Park Arboretum

Here’s a great free thing to do in Seattle: Act like a local, and spend a few hours in the Washington Park Arboretum’s 230 acres. It’s home to a stunning array of trees, plants, and flowers, including some that are found nowhere else in the Northwest. Located on the shores of Lake Washington, the arboretum is open during daylight hours year-round for free. Leashed dogs are allowed in most areas, so if you’re traveling with pets, the Arboretum may be a fun thing to do on your Seattle vacation trip with your pet. botanicgardens.uw.edu/washington-park-arboretum/visit/

While you’re there, don’t miss the Japanese Garden, which is considered one of the best examples of its kind outside of Japan. It’s a beautiful place to stroll among plants, moss, a koi pond, winding paths, stone lanterns, and a meadow area. Admission is $6 for kids and $10 for adults. seattlejapanesegarden.org/

Recommended: What Is a Travel Credit Card?

10. Sip Some Local Wine

California isn’t the only West Coast state known for its wine: Washington is, too, and Woodinville, about 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, is a great place to see and taste for yourself. (You may want to rent a car or explore car services and/or public transportation to get there.)

You’ll find more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms in Woodinville to explore. Winery hours and prices vary, but you can have fun sampling the different varieties produced so close to the city.

The Takeaway

Seattle is a great city with so much to do. Whether you want to explore its natural beauty, eat amazing food, check out museums, shop, or get schooled in its history, you’ll have plenty of options.

SoFi Travel is a new service offered exclusively to SoFi members. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. Then apply those rewards to your next trip when you book through our travel portal. SoFi makes planning a getaway fast, easy, and convenient — perfect for people on the move.

SoFi, your one-stop shop for travel.

FAQ

What are things to do in Seattle at night?

Seattle has many things to do at night. There are numerous restaurants, bars and clubs throughout the city. The Beneath the Streets Tour would also be a fun and unique activity to do at night. The tour covers underground Seattle and the Red Light District, and may be best suited for adults, as topics include prostitution, drinking, gambling and crime.

What are some things to do in Seattle for kids?

Seattle has a lot to offer for kids and families who are visiting. The Seattle Great Wheel is a popular attraction among children. Finding free activities can be how families afford to travel. Seattle also offers plenty of free or cheap attractions, like visiting the Fremont Troll or watching boats at the Ballard Locks.

What are unique things to do in Seattle?

Seattle has a few fun and unique things that you can’t find in most other cities. Some uniquely Seattle activities include visiting the Gum Wall at Pike Place Market or taking a tour of underground Seattle with the Beneath the Streets Tour.

---

Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.
When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.
Eligibility: You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia's website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.
SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.
Additional Terms: Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase. Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded. Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger. SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SOCC0223018

Read more

Golden Gate Bridge. Fisherman’s Wharf. Chinatown. While there are plenty of well-known things to do in San Francisco, these are just the tip of the iceberg. As you plan your San Francisco vacation, make an itinerary of the tried and true as well as the hidden gems that only locals know about.

Here, you’ll learn about some of the best things to do in San Francisco, plus tips on making your trip as fun as possible and stretching your budget to the max.

Best Times to Go to San Francisco

Weatherwise, San Francisco is pretty consistent throughout the year. Temperatures range from the 50s to 70s during the day, making a vacation here any time a great idea.

However, you may be more likely to find travel deals if you travel off-season, so outside of the May to August summer season.

While summer travel may be the most popular, there are events in the city throughout the year:

•   February: Chinese New Year

•   April: San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM)

•   May: How Weird Street Faire

•   June: San Francisco Pride

•   October: Italian Heritage Parade

•   November to January: Illuminate SF Festival of Light

Bad Times to Go to San Francisco

If you want warm weather for your San Francisco trip, know that you may not get it in summer. Many people assume that because San Francisco is in California, it’s hot come June, July, and August, but sometimes that isn’t true. The weather can change quickly once the sun dips behind the buildings, and the city is known for its fog. Pack a jacket.

While fog and chilly weather aren’t going to ruin most people’s vacations, the unexpected can happen, so you may want to look into travel insurance before you head to the city by the bay. Your credit card travel insurance may cover you, or you could purchase your own policy.

Average Cost of a San Francisco Vacation

As you work on your financial prep for travel, you’ll need to know how much to budget for your San Francisco vacation.

If you’re traveling alone, the average cost for a week in the city is $2,348. For couples, it’s $4,217.

The type of accommodations you choose will impact your budget. Hotels in San Francisco can be found for $82 to $357 a night, although there may be ways you can save on hotels, such as joining a rewards program or applying discount codes. If you prefer a vacation rental (where you can cook to save money), expect to pay $280 to $610 per night.

Recommended: How to Find Book Now, Pay Later Travel

10 Fun and Affordable Must-Dos in San Francisco

San Francisco is made up of distinct neighborhoods such as Japantown, Chinatown, Mission District, Financial District, Haight-Ashbury, and more. You may want to explore a different neighborhood every day on your trip.

Here are 10 fun things to do in San Francisco according to frequent visitors, locals, and top-rated online reviews.

1. Spend Time in Japantown

While its cousin, Chinatown, tends to get all the attention, Japantown in San Francisco is also worth a visit. This is one of only three remaining Japantowns in the country, and here you can find delicious food, cultural events, and plenty of shopping. Whether you’re looking for an authentic kimono, teapot, manga, or Japanese groceries, you’ll find them here. sfjapantown.org/

2. Check out Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is bustling and crowded. Be sure to snap a photo under the iconic pagoda doorway that marks the start of Chinatown before ambling through the quarter.

After you get your fill of shopping, stop at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, a hole in the wall you might miss if you don’t know to look for it. Here you’ll see the employees deftly throwing round batter on a hot skillet and shaping them into those delicious cookies we all know and love. sanfranciscochinatown.com/

3. Don’t Forget Fisherman’s Wharf

Yes, it’s touristy, but yes, you still need to visit this famous area. It’s been around for more than 100 years and now offers many things to see including museums, shops, and restaurants.

A favorite place to spend some time in Fisherman’s Wharf is Musée Mécanique, which offers an impressive collection of old-time arcade games, music boxes, and slot machines. Bring your quarters, and get lost in nostalgia.

After that, you’ll work up an appetite, so head over to one of the many restaurants. Seafood is a must! Restaurants like Cioppino’s, Crab House, and Pier Market Seafood Restaurant offer clam chowder, shrimp, and other delicacies from the sea. If you wind up splashing out on a seafood feast, you might want to pay with plastic to earn and then redeem credit card rewards. fishermanswharf.org/

4. Explore an Amazing Aquarium

After visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, head to the Aquarium by the Bay a short walk away at Pier 39. There are more than 20,000 aquatic critters, including jellyfish, sharks, bat rays, otters, and more.

Explore the aquarium on your own by getting up close and personal with different exhibits including Under the Bay, Sharks of Alcatraz Tunnel, Go With the Flow, and more. General admission tickets are typically $31.75 for adults and $21.75 for kids ages four to 12. aquariumofthebay.org/

5. Get Outdoors at Golden Gate Park

Another of the fun things to do in San Francisco is to spend a few hours in Golden Gate Park. There are over 1,000 acres of meadows, lakes, gardens, playgrounds, and museums. While some of the museums and gardens charge admission, there is plenty available at no cost, making it a fun free thing to do in the city and a way families can afford to travel.

Don’t miss the Bison Paddock, which has attracted visitors since 1892, or the Japanese Tea Garden, which boasts azaleas, cherry trees, and Japanese maples. Incidentally, if you are traveling with a pet, know that most areas (though not buildings) in the park are dog-friendly. sfrecpark.org/770/Golden-Gate-Park

6. Marvel at Mind-Blowing Science

Visiting San Francisco with science lovers? Don’t miss this institution located right at Golden Gate Park in an architecturally amazing building. It includes an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest (yes, a rainforest), and natural history museum under one umbrella. Admission is typically $43.75 for adults; $34.25 for youth.

If you’re looking for something unique to do in the evening in San Francisco, visit one of the California Academy of Sciences’ properties for NightLife ($22.75), which offers the chance to get your science on while enjoying adult beverages and food. calacademy.org/

7. Head Over to Haight-Ashbury

For the hippies at heart, no San Francisco trip is complete without a visit to the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. This is where flower power sprang up, and where you can now find quirky boutiques, restaurants and brightly painted Victorian buildings.

8. Peruse the Painted Ladies

A beautiful juxtaposition between modern and historic San Francisco, the Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian houses painted in cheerful colors near Alamo Square Park. Consider having a sunset picnic in the park to get a great opportunity to see and shoot the ladies in the golden light. It’s a wonderful bit of architecture that San Francisco is known for.

Recommended: Credit Card Miles vs. Cash Back

9. Fuel Up at the Ferry Building Marketplace

Foodies, this is one of the top things to do in San Francisco. On the Embarcadero at Market Street, you’ll find the Ferry Building Marketplace. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of artisanal food shops and eateries, as well as a farmer’s market and events.

Get your coffee fix with local legend Blue Bottle Coffee, then splurge on a delicious vegan donut at Donut Farm, known for flavors like Orange Creamsicle and Lavender Earl Grey. Or go for lunch at Grande Creperie or Delica. You’ve got options! ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/

10. Hop on a San Francisco Cable Car

One of the best things to do in San Francisco is to take the quintessential cable car. This historic form of transportation has been getting people around the city for nearly 150 years.

Be sure to stay on until the car turns around at the Powell/Mason Cable Car Turnaround. Here, the car will be manually turned on a large wooden circle so it can make the return journey. Tickets are $8 for passengers age 5 and up. sfmta.com/getting-around/muni/cable-cars

The Takeaway

San Francisco is the ideal vacation spot because it appeals to foodies, history buffs, science lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good walk in a park. The bonus? You’ll get your steps in if you choose to walk up and down its picturesque hills!

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

Wherever you’re going, get there with SoFi Travel.

FAQ

What are free things to do in San Francisco?

Enjoy a stroll around Golden Gate Park or picnic with the Painted Ladies at sunset to enjoy the city without spending a cent.

Where should I eat in San Francisco?

San Francisco is a food lover’s paradise. Both Chinatown and Japantown offer great options, and the merchants at Ferry Building Marketplace specialize in artisanal delicacies.

How many days should I spend in San Francisco?

With so much to do, you could easily spend five days in San Francisco. At a minimum, budget three days to see a decent amount of attractions.

---

Photo credit: iStock/Eloi_Omella

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC0223046

Read more

Known as “The Big Pineapple,” Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and a great place for your next vacation. While Honolulu is very much a major city on the island of Oahu, within minutes, you can be exploring the gorgeous, lush countryside that surrounds it.

That means there’s ample opportunities to do everything from visiting historical sites and sampling amazing food to snorkeling, kayaking, or climbing waterfalls. To help you develop your itinerary for visiting this tropical paradise, consider the following list of things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii. You’ll also learn travel tips and tricks to make your vacay that much better.

Best Times to Go to Honolulu

With temperatures that rarely rise above the high 80s, Honolulu is temperate throughout the year. The best (and least crowded) times to visit are April, May, September, or October.

Here are some of the annual events in Honolulu you might want to plan your trip around:

•   March: The Honolulu Festival

•   May: The Lei Day Celebration

•   June: The King Kamehameha Floral Parade

•   September: The Aloha Festival

•   October: Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival

•   December: Honolulu Marathon

Bad Times to Go to Honolulu

While temperatures are appealing year-round, some can find the summer sun and warmth a bit oppressive; others find winter a tad too humid.

Also, summer travel can often mean more tourists and therefore more crowded attractions. The rainy season is from November to March, and since many of the best things to do in Honolulu are outdoor activities, this might not be the ideal time to take your Honolulu trip.

Weather is one of the many variables that can impact a trip. If the unexpected happens and you can’t take your trip or things were to go awry once you were in Hawaii, having travel insurance can help you get reimbursed for travel purchases. You might be able to access credit card travel insurance, or you could buy it before your trip.

Average Cost of a Honolulu Vacation

If you’re taking a romantic trip for two to Honolulu, you can expect the cost of a weeklong trip to run about $4,142. It can, of course, cost more or less, depending on your budget.

Renting a vacation home, which can cost from $220 to $1,000 a night, means you can save on food since you can cook in the home. It may, however, cost more per night than a hotel, which averages $100 to $459 a night in Honolulu, though you can often save on hotel costs by being a member of a chain’s rewards program, finding coupon codes, or using other travel hacks.

Other costs to consider include renting a car, airfare, and dining. Of course, attractions are another expense, whether that’s museum admission or chartering a boat.

The prices above don’t include airfare getting to and from the island. Obviously, the cost will vary depending upon where you are flying from and back to, as well as how you like to travel (nonstop or not, which class of service, whether you check bags, and so forth). Signing up for an airline credit card before you book your flights can help you earn points for purchases.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Honolulu

If you’re ready to plan your trip and pack in the best things to do in Honolulu, here is a list culled from travelers’ experiences, locals’ recommendations, and top-reviewed attractions.

One quick tip: If you’re planning on doing some of the pricier activities (say, a scuba or snorkeling expedition), you may want to pay with plastic to earn some credit card rewards.

1. Hike Mānoa Falls

Visiting a waterfall is a highlight of many Hawaiian vacations. One to consider: Mānoa Falls, a short-but-sweet 1.6-mile round-trip hike. It’s especially nice on a hot day, as the entire trail is shaded by bamboo, ferns, and ancient banyan trees. The trail’s incline is steady and can sometimes be muddy, so bring water and wear appropriate shoes.

At the end of the trail is a gorgeous waterfall to enjoy; take time to snap a few photos and catch your breath. Incidentally, there is a sign at the bottom of the falls discouraging visitors from swimming due to possible bacteria in the water; follow guidance and/or do your own research. Also worth noting: There is a $5 parking fee. hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov/trails/#/trail/manoa-falls-trail/225

Recommended: Where to Find Book Now, Pay Later Travel

2. Soak in the Sunset at Waikīkī Beach

One of the top things to do in Honolulu is visit historic Waikīkī Beach. This is where the first hotel was built in 1901, and since then, it has become a hotspot for vacationers. Even if you aren’t staying nearby, it’s worth an evening visit to watch the pinks, purples, and blues of the sunset melt into the water. If you have kids in tow, hanging out at a beach is a free thing to do in Honolulu, which can be one of the ways families can afford to travel.

Consider having a cocktail at one of the many beachside bars to enjoy the experience.

3. Get Up Close to a Coral Reef

Another must on the list of fun things to do in Honolulu is Hanauma Bay State Park, which has been a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park since 1967. To protect the coral reef and its inhabitants, reservations are now required. There is a $3 parking fee and a $25 park entrance fee.

Once you’re in, you’ll be treated to a short video explaining the history of the park, as well as introducing you to the creatures that call it home. Take the tram down to the shore and spend the day snorkeling over coral reefs. Take an underwater camera so you can capture parrotfish, octopuses, sea urchins, puffer fish, and more. hanaumabaystatepark.com/

4. Swim with the Sharks

Not everyone will consider this one of the fun things to do in Honolulu, but some will enjoy this adventure. Several companies offer snorkel tours that give you instruction in this pursuit, and then, when suited up, you can hold onto a rope along the side of the boat and watch as sandbar sharks, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, tiger sharks, and more drift by at a safe distance. You may also get the chance to free dive into the water for an extra thrill.

An outing like this, lasting a couple of hours, can cost about $150 per person. You might want to use a travel credit card and get points when paying for pricier activities like these.

5. Tour a Japanese Temple

Oahu has a strong tie to Japanese culture, and nowhere is that more evident than at the Byodo-In Temple. It was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. After paying $5 for adult admission (card only; no cash), tour the gorgeous gardens and temple, ring the giant sacred bell (Bon-sho), make an offering to the Amida Buddha, and feed the goldfish. You can also buy a souvenir in the gift shop. byodo-in.com/

Recommended: Credit Card Miles vs. Cash Bank

5. Revisit Pearl Harbor

For many, Honolulu is synonymous with Pearl Harbor, which was bombed in 1941 and is an important date in U.S. history. One of the best things you can do in Honolulu is take a tour and immerse yourself in what happened at Pearl Harbor during World War II. View the wreckage of this historic battle site; visit the Battleship Missouri, where the Japanese surrendered and ended the war; and learn from the WWII museum exhibits.

Ticket prices vary. Admission to the Submarine Museum is $12.99 for kids; $21.99 for adults. Admission to four exhibits and the Visitor Center is $44.99 for kids and $89.99 for adults. https://www.pearlharborhistoricsites.org/

6. Treat Yourself to Something Sweet

After a day of exploring Honolulu, you’ll be ready for a sweet break, and you’ll find that at the famous Liliha Bakery. There are five locations in Honolulu, often offering up to 150 different types of baked goods. Liliha is especially well-known for its craveable cream puffs in flavors like green tea and chocolate. If you go for lunch, save room for dessert! lilihabakery.com/

7. Explore the North Shore

If you’re a surfer (or surf-watcher), North Shore is the place to be. If you’re a beginner, you can take a surf lesson. If you’re a spectator, there are surf competitions like Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in the winter.

Not into surfing? No worries. The North Shore is still worth a visit: Haleʻiwa Town is a great place to shop at cute boutiques or grab a shave ice at Matsumoto’s.

8. Savor a Steak

Buzz’s Original Steakhouse has been an Oahu classic since it started serving up its prime cuts in 1962. Located across the street from Kailua Beach Park, Buzz’s is open for lunch, pupu (appetizers) and drinks, and dinner (Note: The website requests no tank tops after 4:30 pm; just sayin’). Fare includes beef spring rolls, poke, rack of lamb, and calamari steak, which cooks up a big portion of the calamari vs. just the tentacles. Buzz’s mai tais are said to be among the best on the island. buzzsoriginalsteakhouse.com/

9. Kayak to Mokoli’i

Mokoliʻi Island, also known as Chinaman’s Hat, is a cone-shaped island that’s a popular destination for visitors. You can kayak to the island, which is a short distance from Kualoa Point. Once you’re there, you can hike to the peak and wave to your friends on the opposite beach.

10. Dine at a Tea House

Here’s another piece of World War II history: the Natsunoya Tea House, which has been a tea house (under a different name) since 1921, was taken over by the U.S. government during the war and converted into a fire and first-aid station. After the war, it reverted to a teahouse. Today, it’s a sushi restaurant, Natsunoya, that also offers banquets and catering. natsunoyahawaii.com/

The Takeaway

For those dreaming of a vacation in Hawaii, Honolulu can bring together the best of big-city amenities and the relaxation of the country. The battle you’ll face is managing downtime with so many fun things to do in Honolulu, from beaches to hikes to historical sites and more.

Whether you want to travel more or get a better ROI for your travel dollar, SoFi can help. SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members that lets you budget, plan, and book your next trip in a convenient one-stop shop. SoFi takes the guessing game out of how much you can afford for that honeymoon, family vacation, or quick getaway — and we help you save too.

SoFi Travel can take you farther.

FAQ

What sweets is Honolulu known for?

People with a sweet tooth will be spoiled for choice in Honolulu. Popular snacks include cream puffs from Liliha Bakery, malasadas (fried dough), shaved ice, and poi donuts (poi is derived from taro root and has a purple hue).

Where can I see a waterfall in Honolulu?

Mānoa Falls is a beautiful and easily-accessible waterfall near Honolulu. Waimea Falls is another option, though it can sometimes be crowded.

How long do I need to see Honolulu?

Plan for a minimum of five days in Honolulu, and more if you plan to visit other spots in Hawaii.

---

Photo credit: iStock/okimo

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC0223035

Read more