Aloha, fellow travelers!
If you’ve just landed at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and are looking to get to Waikiki, you must be wondering, how far is Waikiki from Honolulu?
In this guide, I answer your question in detail, highlighting the best ways to get from Honolulu to Waikiki. Stick around!
The Distance Between Honolulu and Waikiki
Waikiki is a neighborhood within the city of Honolulu, so it’s not far at all!
The distance between the Honolulu International Airport and Waikiki is approximately 9 miles (14 kilometers). Depending on traffic, it takes about 15-30 minutes to drive from the airport to Waikiki.
So, once you arrive in Honolulu, you’re just a short drive away from the world-famous Waikiki Beach and all the attractions this beautiful area has to offer.
Getting to Waikiki: The Fun and Budget-Friendly Ways
Below are some of the most convenient ways to get from Honolulu to Waikiki.
1. Shuttles to Waikiki
Since Waikiki is such a bustling destination, there are numerous airport shuttle services that’ll whisk you away to paradise.
Go Waikiki Shuttle is your first pick. They offer round-trip rides for a mere $30 per person, which is quite a steal, considering you’re headed to a piece of heaven on Earth.
Jet A Limo is for those who appreciate a little extra care. They’ll track your flight and update your driver about any time changes or delays, ensuring you have a seamless experience.
Clik Shuttle is another solid option with affordable round-trip rides from the airport. They’ve got you covered even if you’re carrying large items like surfboards. Plus, they offer tours around the island, just in case you’re keen on exploring.
For those who crave the utmost luxury, Fly Shuttle Tours is where you’ll find your ride. Starting at $130 for a private shuttle for two, it’s like cruising to Waikiki in a high-quality car cocoon.
One of the coolest things about shuttle services is their flexibility. Like taxis and ride-sharing services, they offer hotel pickup and drop-off, but they have the added charm of set prices and the convenience of booking in advance, either online or over the phone.
2. Rideshares
If you’ve been living under a rock and haven’t heard the good news, let me fill you in.
As of August 2018, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are officially allowed to offer rides to and from Honolulu’s international airport! They even have designated pickup areas on the second level, making it easy as pie.
Rideshares can be economical, depending on the time of day and the size of your party. Just watch out for those occasional surge prices during rush hours.
The cost from the airport to Waikiki varies based on your choice of car and the number of passengers. For a larger car, expect to pay a tad more.
With estimated prices ranging from $23 to $52, the ride itself takes a breezy 15-20 minutes. However, be prepared to wait for your car for about 10-15 minutes if drivers are in high demand.
Oh, and don’t forget that there’s a 7% surcharge on trips from the Honolulu airport to any destination.
3. Car or Scooter Rental Service
Now, if you’re the adventurous type, and the Hawaiian Islands have you itching for exploration beyond Waikiki, renting a car is your ticket to freedom. You can rent scooters in Waikiki from us through that link.
Imagine cruising through the lush landscapes and exploring the beauty of the entire island at your own pace. Rental cars give you that independence, and Honolulu’s international airport offers a plethora of options.
Major car rental companies like Avis, Budget, Advantage, Hertz, Enterprise, and National are all here, waiting to set you up with the perfect island ride.
You can find rental counters in the Baggage Claim area, so whether you’ve booked in advance or are making a last-minute decision, you’re good to go.
4. Traditional Taxi
For those who prefer the tried-and-true, the traditional taxi is always a reliable option. You’ll find several taxi services available, most offering flat-rate fees for their rides. You’ll find them at the center median fronting the terminal baggage claim areas
Star Taxi Hawaii charges $30 for the airport-to-Waikiki route, while Charley’s Taxi offers a similar deal at $29 each way. Note that AMPCO Express manages all of the taxi services at the airport.
Hopping into a taxi at the last minute may cost you more, sometimes ranging from $40 to $50. Look for taxi dispatchers in the baggage claim area to catch a cab if you haven’t prearranged one. They wear yellow shirts with black lettering.
5. Public Transportation
For budget-conscious travelers with a sense of adventure, there’s always the option of taking the bus from the airport to Waikiki. It’s only $2.75 for a one-way ride, making it one of the most economical choices.
You can access the bus to Waikiki from the airport’s upper level, the Main Terminal Diamond Head. The #20 bus comes every 20 minutes and takes about an hour to get to Waikiki.
If you’re looking to save more money to spend in Waikiki, and you don’t mind the 36 stops it takes to get there, then this is the method for you.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it; public transportation with luggage can be a bit of an adventure in itself, especially if you’re navigating unfamiliar territory.
But hey, it’s all part of the experience, right?
Wrapping Up
Whether you choose the elegance of a shuttle, the ease of a rideshare, the freedom of a rental car, the reliability of a taxi, or the adventure of public transport, getting from Honolulu Airport to Waikīkī is a breeze. With options galore, your sunny Hawaiian escapade is just moments away!
