Hey there! Excited about your Oahu trip? Wondering how to go from Honolulu Airport (HNL) to Waikiki? Let’s make it a breeze!
Hint: Smooth travels begin here!
H2: Watch YouTube video
1: Limousine
Got a special occasion coming up, like a birthday bash, anniversary celebration, or a girls’ trip? Consider kicking off the festivities with a stylish limo ride from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki. Prices differ between companies, but on average, expect around two hundred dollars. Limos typically accommodate 7-10 people, but it’s wise to confirm the capacity and discuss luggage arrangements with the company—trunk or passenger area? Let’s make your special occasion extra special!
2: Rental Car
In general, rental cars picked up at the airport are usually more budget-friendly than those snagged in Waikiki. But here’s a heads-up: factor in the cost of Waikiki hotel parking. If you’re bunking in a Waikiki hotel, daily parking can range from $20 to $60, depending on the spot. Check with your hotel for specific parking rates to ensure the money you save on airport pickup doesn’t vanish into parking fees. Let’s keep those vacation savings intact!
3: Metered Taxi
Here’s the absolute easiest and most convenient choice: taxis. No need to book in advance! After grabbing your luggage on the ground level, head straight outside to the median where you’ll find the taxi stand. Metered taxis usually cost $40 to $60 for the approximately 9-mile or 14-kilometer journey from the airport to Waikiki. Expect a smooth 20-minute ride, depending on traffic. Let’s make getting to Waikiki a breeze!
4: Flat Rate Taxi
Consider these convenient pre-ordered options, priced at around $30. They’re especially handy if you’re flying in during peak hours, like say, around 4:00 pm on a Friday when rush hour traffic hits between 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Opting for a flat-rate taxi helps you dodge those price jumps that happen when you’re stuck in traffic. Let’s keep it smooth and stress-free!
5: Rideshare – Uber and Lyft
To get from the airport to Waikiki using rideshare apps, you’re looking at roughly $20 to $30. Keep in mind, prices can differ between apps, so always check both. Unlike taxis, rideshare pickups happen on a different level. Taxis wait at ground level across from baggage claim.
For rideshare apps, after grabbing your luggage, take the closest elevator up to the second floor. Head to the median marked with a “Rideshare” sign (check the YouTube video above for a visual). In Terminal 1, it’s just outside Lobby 2, and in Terminal 2, it’s past Lobby 4, between 4 and 5. Right across, you’ll spot the sign for the rideshare pickup zone. Let’s make this app-solutely easy!
6: Shuttle Bus
Looking for an economical option to get to Waikiki? Shared shuttles are your go-to, usually costing $10 to $20 per person. Depending on the company, you might even get help with your luggage – from the baggage claim to the shuttle. Some companies even offer a sweet add-on: a fresh flower welcome lei for an extra fee. Perfect for those who want that Hawaiian touch!
7: City Bus
For a wallet-friendly choice to reach Waikiki, hop on the city bus for $2.75 one way. Cash is accepted for the ticket, or you can use a Holo Card, a stored value card you can load money onto. Grab one at various spots in Waikiki, like ABC Stores and 7-Eleven. Holo Cards cap your daily fare at $5.50 – pretty sweet!
From Terminal 1, the city bus stop is just outside Lobby 3. In Terminal 2, find it clearly marked on level 2 outside Lobby 4, close to the rideshare sign.
Keep in mind, while it’s the most budget-friendly, the city bus has some rules. The major one is no luggage on board, except for maybe a large purse or a backpack. So, if you’re rolling in with baggage, this might not be the best fit. Let’s make your journey both savvy and luggage-friendly!
When would the city bus work?
For those island hopping to Oahu just for the day, maybe with only a backpack, the city bus is perfect. It’s an inexpensive way to travel from the airport to downtown or Waikiki.
If you’ve dropped off a rental car at the airport but still need to reach Waikiki, the city bus is a solid choice. Since it’s just $2.75 and you won’t have luggage, it’s one of the most affordable ways. Keep in mind, though, it’s a city bus, so there are frequent stops, and the ride from the airport to Waikiki takes about an hour.
I hope this info gives you ideas on the best way to get from the airport to Waikiki based on your needs. Safe travels!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are seven diverse ways to journey from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki. Whether you’re eyeing the ease of a taxi, the comfort of a rideshare, the affordability of the city bus, or the shared joy of a shuttle.
There’s an option to suit your preferences and needs. Island hopping for a day or dropping off a rental car? The city bus might be your go-to. Whatever your choice, make it a smooth and enjoyable ride to the vibrant shores of Waikiki!
I’m Justin Taylor, your go-to guide at “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve been soaking in the colors and stories of Hawaii for a while now, and I want you to join me on this fantastic journey. At Go Hawaii US, we’re all about making your Hawaiian adventure unforgettable. It’s not just a guide; it’s like turning information into a real, vibrant experience. Come along, and let’s explore the wonders of Hawaii together!
