Navigating Oʻahu is easier than ever, thanks to the variety of public transportation options for both kamaʻāina and visitors. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the streets of Waikiki, there’s a mode of transportation that fits your needs. Here’s the ultimate guide to making the most of Oʻahu’s public transit:
TheBus: Island-Wide Accessibility
TheBus has been a trusted transportation service for years, connecting riders to nearly every corner of Oʻahu. Known for its award-winning service, TheBus is both reliable and convenient. Use the DaBus2 app on your smartphone or mapping tools like Google or Apple Maps to find your ideal route.
Payment Options:
- Pay in exact cash.
- Use your HOLO card (Find more details below on how to get one ).
Simply scan your HOLO card and wait for the shaka icon to confirm your ride! For more route details and rider alerts, visit TheBus website at www.thebus.org.
The Skyline Rail: Speed Above the Sky
Honolulu’s newest form of transportation, the Skyline Rail, is up and running! With stops from Aloha Stadium to Kapolei, Skyline offers a fast and efficient way to travel, bypassing Oʻahu’s bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Using Skyline:
- Purchase or reload your HOLO card at station kiosks or online.
- Enjoy seamless transfers between Skyline and TheBus at no extra cost.
Follow station signs for guidance and check the Skyline schedule online for updates.
The HOLO Card: Your All-in-One Transit Pass
The HOLO card simplifies payment for both TheBus and The Skyline, offering a reusable and cash-free way to travel. There are five types of HOLO cards: Adult, Youth, Senior, Medicare, and Disability.
Where to Get a HOLO Card:
- TheBus Pass Office
- Skyline Stations
- Grocery Stores
- Satellite City Halls
- net
Reload your card online or at any participating location for quick and convenient travel.
Biki Bikes: A Scenic, Eco-Friendly Option
Prefer taking the scenic route? Hop on a Biki Bike and enjoy cycling through downtown Honolulu. With numerous stations and plans starting at just $5, it’s an affordable and eco-conscious way to travel.
How to Ride Biki:
- Locate a nearby station.
- Follow the on-screen instructions for plan selection and payment (Make sure to bring your credit card with you).
- Choose your bike and start your journey!
Whether you’re a visitor or kamaʻāina, you can explore downtown Honolulu in style while reducing your carbon footprint. For details, visit gobiki.org.
Waikiki Trolley: Explore Iconic Landmarks
The Waikiki Trolley is perfect for sightseeing, with routes designed for historical landmarks, famous hiking spots, popular shopping spots, and more. Choose from four lines:
- Blue Line: Coastal views
- Red Line: Historic landmarks
- Green Line: Scenic route
- Pink Line: Shopping and dining
Flexible passes are available for one day, four days, or even a full week. Purchase your tickets online at waikikitrolley.com.
Choosing these public transportation options also decreases the environmental impact of driving, reducing air and water pollution. Making the eco-friendly choice to swap out your car for a mode of public transportation saves you money, reduces the number of vehicles on the road, and helps keep vehicle pollution out of our storm drains and ocean.
Public transportation on Oʻahu offers something for everyone. Whether you’re riding TheBus, taking in the sights on the Waikiki Trolley, or soaring above traffic on the Skyline Rail, these options make exploring the island simple, stress-free, and environmentally friendly.
To learn more about the public transportation services, please visit the City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services.
Sources: TheBus, HOLO, City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services, Waikiki Trolley