Visiting Honolulu and wondering how to get around without a car? the best transport passes in Honolulu or want to know about Honolulu Instagrammable transport spots. Whether you’re heading from Waikiki to Diamond Head, catching golden hour at a rooftop bar, or chasing waves on the North Shore, this guide has you covered.
From affordable local buses to navigation apps and camera-ready transit views, I’ve created a free downloadable PDF with everything you need to move around Honolulu with ease and confidence.
Download the Honolulu Transport Guide (PDF)
Main Transport Options in Honolulu
Honolulu might be laid-back, but its transport options are surprisingly effective — especially for solo travellers and budget-conscious explorers.
Here’s what you’ll find in the city:
- TheBus – Honolulu’s public bus system runs across O‘ahu, including Waikiki, Ala Moana, Pearl Harbour, and even to the North Shore.
- Biki Bikes – The city’s bike-share system, perfect for scenic rides along the beach or Kapiolani Park.
- The Skyline (New Rail) – Honolulu’s new rail system (The Skyline) is ideal for quick travel from the west side into town, especially from Kapolei.
- Uber, Lyft & Taxis – Reliable options, but watch out for surge pricing after sunset or events.
- Scooter & Moped Rentals – Fun, zippy, and very photogenic. Just make sure your travel insurance covers it.
Passes, Cards & Easy Payment Tips
No fumbling for coins — Honolulu’s public transport is mostly contactless.
Here’s what you need to know about the best transport passes in Honolulu:
- HOLO Card – Use this prepaid tap-and-go card on TheBus and The Skyline. Daily fare caps mean you never overpay.
- Buy HOLO cards at ABC Stores, 7-Eleven, or online.
- Single rides are $3, but the daily cap maxes out at $7.50.
Best Navigation Apps for Honolulu
Honolulu is island-style chill, but don’t rely only on Google Maps — especially on the bus.
Here are my top recommendations:
- DaBus2 App – The official app for real-time bus arrivals and delays.
- Biki App – Great for bike docking info and suggested routes.
- Moovit – Ideal for comparing transit options and syncing with your itinerary.
I’ve listed all of these and included app screenshots in the downloadable guide.
Flight Attendant Tips for Transporting Like a Local
As a flight attendant and travel photographer, I’ve done Honolulu layovers more times than I can count — but I always find something new. My top tips:
- Sit on the left side of TheBus heading east for sunrise views over the ocean.
- Use Biki bikes at golden hour to cruise from Ala Moana to Kaimana Beach — with your camera in your crossbody.
- Always pack a quick-dry towel and camera wipe — bus stops double as photo spots after beach time.
Best Honolulu Instagrammable transport spots
Yes, even buses and bikes can be part of your visual story.
Here are a few suggestions:
- TheBus with Diamond Head in the background at Kalakaua Ave
- Biki bikes parked in front of Waikiki sunsets
- Skyline views from Halawa station at golden hour
- Vintage shuttles outside the Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Download the Free Honolulu Transport Guide
👉 Click here to download the Honolulu Transport Guide (PDF)
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