To get around in Honolulu, you can use a variety of transportation options, including buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and rental cars, as well as walking and biking in this pedestrian-friendly city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the main gateway to the city, located about 3 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu. The airport is a major hub for Hawaiian Airlines and offers direct flights to many cities in the United States, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. You can also fly into Honolulu from other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, on inter-island flights. If you're traveling from the mainland United States, you can fly into Honolulu from major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle.
If you prefer to travel by sea, you can take a cruise ship to Honolulu, which is a popular port of call for many cruise lines. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Kauai, to Oahu, although this option is less frequent and may not be as convenient. There are no land borders or overland entry points to Honolulu, as it is located on an island.
Domestic Flights
Hawaii has an extensive domestic air network, with multiple daily flights between the islands. You can fly from Honolulu to other islands on Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines, among others. The main routes include Honolulu to Kahului (Maui), Kona (Big Island), and Lihue (Kauai). Booking tips include booking in advance to secure the best rates, being flexible with your travel dates, and considering package deals that include hotel stays and car rentals. Approximate costs for domestic flights range from $100 to $300 per person, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
There is no rail network in Honolulu or the state of Hawaii, so you won't find any trains or subways to get around the city. However, there are plans to develop a rail transit system in the future, which would connect downtown Honolulu with the suburbs and other parts of the island.
Buses & Coaches
The bus system in Honolulu is extensive and convenient, with multiple routes covering the city and surrounding areas. The main bus company is TheBus, which operates over 100 routes and offers affordable fares, with a single ride costing $3 and a monthly pass available for $70. You can pay with cash or use a prepaid card, and there are also apps like Transit and Moovit that can help you plan your route and track your bus in real-time.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Honolulu, surrounding areas | $3 | Single ride, prepaid cards available |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $3-$5 + $2.75/mile | Metered fare, credit cards accepted |
| Ride-Hailing | Honolulu, surrounding areas | $10-$20 | Uber, Lyft, local alternatives |
| Bike Rental | Honolulu, Waikiki | $20-$30/day | Various rental shops and bike-share programs |
| Walking | Everywhere | Free | Pedestrian-friendly city, scenic coastal walks |
Driving
- To drive in Honolulu, you'll need a valid US driver's license or an international driving permit.
- Road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained highways and scenic coastal roads.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in Hawaii, with prices ranging from $3 to $5 per gallon.
- Car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise have locations at the airport and in downtown Honolulu, with prices starting from $40 per day.
- Be aware of traffic and parking challenges in popular areas like Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
- Hazards like tropical storms and flash flooding can occur, so it's essential to check weather forecasts and road conditions before driving.
Transport Tips
- Be mindful of traffic and parking challenges in popular areas like Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
- Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and overcharging.
- Download apps like Transit and Moovit to plan your bus route and track your bus in real-time.
- Consider purchasing a prepaid card for TheBus to save money and avoid carrying cash.
- Be aware of bike lanes and pedestrian zones, and always follow traffic rules and regulations.
- Take advantage of free or low-cost parking options in areas like Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
- [CALLOUT] Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as tropical storms and flash flooding can occur in Honolulu.