Bicycle
It’s possible to cycle around Oʻahu, but consider taking TheBus to get beyond Honolulu metro-area traffic. All buses have front-loading racks that accommodate two bicycles at no extra charge – just let the driver know first.
Hawaii’s Department of Transportation publishes excellent and comprehensive Bike Oʻahu route maps online at http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/bike-map-oahu. If you plan to do any riding, these maps can be viewed online and are essential ways to determine how bike-friendly you’ll find your intended route. A handy three-color system gives routes ratings of green (good for novices), yellow (best for experienced cyclists) and red (not suited to bikes at all).
Cyclists will find Oʻahu to be a fairly rider-friendly place. There are many local cyclists on the roads and drivers are used to seeing people riding along the shoulder.
That said, roads, especially away from Honolulu and Waikiki, can be narrow, so riders who are unaccustomed to sharing the asphalt with cars might find some routes challenging. Otherwise, conditions will be familiar to riders: heavy traffic at rush hour and in cities, breezy freedom away from south Oʻahu in the countryside.
Bus
Oʻahu’s public bus system, TheBus, is extensive and easy to use. Ala Moana Center is Honolulu’s central bus transfer point. The system covers most points on the island along the main roads, and it’s a great way to experience the island’s best trips, such as the classic North Shore and Windward Coast loop. However, many trailheads, wilderness areas and viewpoints are not served.
Buses run regularly on major routes, seven days a week and from early morning into the evening. The website has full schedule and route info.
All buses are wheelchair accessible.
Car & Motorcycle
All major car-rental companies have locations at Honolulu International Airport, either in the parking garage across from the terminals or on nearby access roads. Rates are very competitive.
Most major car-rental agencies also have multiple branch locations in Waikiki, usually in the lobbies of resort hotels. Although the best rental rates are usually offered at Honolulu’s airport, Waikiki branches can be less hassle (and less expensive, given steep overnight parking costs at Waikiki hotels) if you’re only renting a car for a limited time.
In Waikiki, independent car-rental agencies may offer lower rates. They also are more likely to rent to drivers under 25. Some also rent mopeds and motorcycles, and a few specialize in Smart cars and hybrid vehicles.
Hawaii Campers Rental camping cars you can take all over Oʻahu for $150 per night plus tax.
Taxi
Taxis have meters and charge $3.10 at flag fall, plus $3.60 per mile and 50¢ per suitcase or backpack. They’re readily available at the airport, resort hotels and shopping centers. Otherwise, call for one. TheCab offers island-wide service. Uber and Lyft are also available.
Charley’s Taxi Limos, vans and SUVs. Book online for flat rates from the airport to Waikiki ($29) and Downtown ($20).
City Taxi With computerized dispatch service, operating 6 AM to 11 PM.
