Honolulu "One word: Paradise."

Local Travel Info
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Local Travel Info

Internal Flights and Major International Airports for Honolulu
Honolulu is currently home to one major airport: Honolulu International Airport. It is the most used form of travel in and out of Honolulu and serves as the gateway to the other Hawaiian Islands. Every major US carrier and over 15 international carriers service Honolulu so finding a non-stop flight should be no problem. Many inter-island flights depart from Honolulu International Airport as well.

Getting To and From Honolulu International Airport

Honolulu’s main airport is located just west of downtown Honolulu and has many transportation options for arriving at your hotel or lodgings. Your best option is the Airport Waikiki Express shuttle bus economically priced at $9 for one-way or $15 for roundtrip. The Waikiki Express stops at all major hotels along the most popular strip of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach. It runs 24 hours a day.

Taxis from Honolulu International Airport to Waikiki during non-rush hour usually will cost you about $35 to $40 with tip. Chauffeured limousine service and group transportation buses are also available outside of baggage claim. Rental car shuttles are also available to transport you from baggage claim to the rental company. Make note though, some car rental companies are located off airport property and you’ll want to verify their shuttle services ahead of time.


Travel Costs in Honolulu

If you’re planning to stay in the Waikiki area of Honolulu, then renting a car is not necessary as shuttle buses run between hotels and shopping centres – many at no fee. With Hawaiian weather next to perfect, walking is a great way to explore Honolulu especially since the area is very accessible – again at no fee. Public transportation is inexpensive at $2 for a one-way fare or $20 for an unlimited 4-day pass. Taxi costs compare to other major cities like New York and taxi drivers are tipped at 15-20%. Taxi fares and regulations are standardized giving travellers the peace of mind that they are receiving the best taxi service. I favourite Honolulu Taxi is Star Taxi. An average fare in non-rush hour to or from the airport is about $35-$40. Another common travel cost for visitors is tour bus travel. An average Honolulu sightseeing tour on bus or trolley can cost anywhere from $50 to $100.


Rental Cars in Honolulu

Because of limited space on the island and having to ship fuel from the mainland United States, car rentals in Honolulu can be a bit more expensive than your average US city. The good news is that Honolulu is one of the most transportation-friendly cities in the United States. In addition, it is quite easy to spend most of your holiday on Waikiki and the downtown area without needing a rental car. Hotel and Shopping Centre shuttles are readily available and most are free. Walking will be contagious once you’re out in the gorgeous Hawaiian weather. Public transportation buses are many and run constantly at little to no cost. So, if you’re used to having a rental car, this might be the one holiday that allows you to skip that expense... in addition to the associated parking expense rental cars frequently incur.


To book car rental in Honolulu online, view our Car Hire section for Honolulu. We offer Ok Alpha users the latest special offers and best rates available for car hire in Honolulu. We advise you book your Honolulu hire car in advance so you can pick it up and drop it off directly at the airport.



Drivers License Requirements in Honolulu


Check with your rental car company or your consulate that your driver’s license is valid in the United States - most likely you’ll only be required to provide your driver’s license and passport when picking up the rental car. It is highly recommended that you purchase the additional car rental insurance for vehicle damage or personal injury if not already required.


Driving Rules in Honolulu


The United States drives on the right side of the road and seatbelts are required at all times. Highway speeds are posted in miles per hour and can range from 55 to 70 mph. Average road speeds range from 15 mph in school zones to the more common 45 mph. Parking is generally metered so make sure to have change. Pay attention to traffic signs and parking restrictions as they are posted everywhere to guide you. Should you be ticketed, instructions will be posted on the ticket and additional fines will be assessed when you turn in your rental car. Make note that pedestrians always have the right of way in the United States.


Buses in Honolulu

The Honolulu public transportation system is very visitor-friendly and runs conveniently around the cities most popular sites 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Adult fares are $2 one-way or a 4-day unlimited pass can be purchased for $20. There are also discount fares for children, seniors, and disabled passengers. Honolulu buses have restrictions on carry-on items so make sure to bring only bags or backpacks that can fit in your lap or under your seat.


Taxis in Honolulu


Taxis are extremely abundant in Honolulu 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They are most commonly seen at the airport, along the Waikiki Beach area, and in front of hotels and restaurants. Taxicabs are heavily regulated in Honolulu and are very safe and reliable but be wary of your belongings as cab companies claim no responsibility for items left behind. Fares start with $3.00 on the meter, and $3.00 is then added for every additional mile with about $0.50 per minute. Cabs are tipped at 15% to 20%.


Hitchhiking in Honolulu


In Honolulu and most metropolitan areas of the United States, the laws for where it is permissible to hitchhike are up to interpretation by law enforcement. Pedestrians are definitely restricted from highways and other high-speed roadways. Although you can try asking for a ride from a friendly passerby, most Americans do not pick up unknown hitchhikers or hitchhike themselves due to safety concerns.