Ultimate Guide: budget-friendly transportation in Hawaii (hawaiionthecheap.com)

Lucky you live in Hawai’i! For a budget-friendly island lifestyle, keeping transportation costs down is essential. We got you covered with this comprehensive list of transportation options, whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or heading to the beach. Listed below are many ways Hawai’i residents can shave costs like ice. We examined how to get around Hawaiʻi without a car using aloha ‘aina alternatives like walking, bicycling, public transportation, and sharing services.

When I lived on Hawai’i Island without a car, I joined a car rental company loyalty program and rented a vehicle for a few days every month to run errands. My average monthly car rental was under $200 (including insurance). The rest of the time I walked or used HIBIKE. It was a good mix of convenience and price: far cheaper than car ownership, more efficient than sharing, and definitely more convenient than the bus.

Of course, the most common mode of transportation for residents in Hawaiʻi is a car (over 80% of households have at least one car). For those already navigating our roadways in their vehicle, we offer budget-friendly suggestions for auto maintenance to minimize costs and extend the life of your car. No matter where you live and work in Hawaiʻi, the following information can help you keep transportation costs as low as possible. Visitors will also find useful information within these options.

We arranged the following transportation options starting with two feet and proceeding from two to four wheels.

How to get around Hawaiʻi without a car

There are many ways to get around Hawaiʻi without a car, including walking, bicycling, two-wheeled vehicles (mopeds, etc.), and public transportation. Find information about using these transportation alternatives in the sections below.

Walking

You can reduce the need to spend money on transportation by living within walking distance of work, as well as everyday needs such as a grocery store, hardware or household goods store, a library, and more conveniences. Walking also helps you maintain an active, healthy lifestyle, which can help reduce other costs such as medical care. For longer distances, be sure to wear slippahs or shoes with adequate support.

When you need a ride to occasional services such as doctor appointments, try to barter with friends or family. For work, look for a carpool with co-workers. Many other options are listed below including two-wheeled vehicles, public transportation, sharing, and rental options.

Bicycling

Commuting by bicycle is very cost-effective and eco-friendly. To commute by bicycle, you need to have a suitable bike, follow Hawaiʻi state and local county regulations, and practice safe cycling. We list the basics below and provide links to more information.

Summary of Hawaiʻi Bicycle laws

Hawaiʻi bicyclists are drivers of vehicles with most of the same responsibilities as motorists. Listed below are some of the basic requirements, plus a link to more detailed information.

Across Hawaii, all bicycles are required to be registered and pay a fee to maintain bike infrastructure.
Wear a properly fitted helmet. Everyone under age 15 is required to wear a helmet while bicycling.
Obey all traffic signs and signals, just as motorists must do.
Ride with traffic, use bicycle lanes when available, and hand signals when turning.
Do not ride against traffic or on interstate freeways.
As with any vehicle, it is illegal to ride after drinking or taking drugs.

Links to more info about Hawaiʻi bicycle laws:

After you familiarize yourself with Hawaiʻi bike laws, learn how to bike safely around the islands.

Tips for Safe Cycling

Urban cycling presents unique challenges. Listed below are essential tips to ensure a safe and comfortable ride, plus links to more bike safety information in Hawaiʻi.

Have your bike properly fitted for seat and handlebar height.
Equip your bicycle with front and rear reflectors to enhance your visibility to motorists.
Equip your bicycle with front and rear lights when riding at dusk or after dark.
Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing that protects you from weather (sun or rain) and won’t get caught in the wheels or gears.
Wear high-visibility clothing to make it easier for motorists to see you.
Wear a helmet to reduce risk of head injury if you fall off your bike. Everyone under age 18 is required to wear a DOT-approved helmet while riding a moped, motor scooter, or motorcycle.
You can use your smartphone to plan a ride from any location. Enter a destination in Google Maps, choose the Cycling option, and get a suggested route.
If you live on Oʻahu, there are dedicated bike routes that suggest safe and convenient access to major areas. More info: Bike Maps Oahu.
Don’t ride distracted by wearing headphones, using your phone, or any other activity.
Keep your eyes on the road and be especially alert to motorists, parked cars, and driveways.
Hawaiʻi public buses are equipped with bicycle racks on the front of the bus, available on a first-come, first-serve basis, making remote destinations accessible by bike. Get more info about biking by bus in the sections below on bus service throughout the islands.
Park your bicycle in designated areas and racks using a sturdy lock.

Links to more info for Safe Cycling so you can feel more confident sharing the roads across Hawaiʻi:

Choosing a suitable bicycle

Commuter road bikes typically have features like an upright riding position, fenders to protect against rode splatter, and racks or baskets for carrying groceries or work essentials. Choose a sturdy commuter bike designed for urban roadways.
Hybrid bikes combine the best features of road and mountain bikes: stability, comfort, and the added ability to handle both urban roads and rural terrain.
Electric bikes aka e-bikes provide power assisted pedaling. Choose an e-bike if your commute involves hills or long distances, which greatly ease excessive exertion for more difficult rides. (I owned an e-bike for a few years and appreciated the boost when going up hills. The drawbacks are initial cost and weight (e-bikes are heavy, which is a drawback when carrying the bike on stairs or loading onto buses).

Bikesharing

Bikesharing is an on-demand, affordable way to get around Hawai‘i. Bikeshare Hawaii is the statewide non-profit organization that provides bikesharing services to Hawaii residents and visitors across the state. The program also promotes continued development of infrastructure for safe biking.

Biki is Honolulu’s bikeshare system. Purchase Biki rides online, through the Biki App, or at the kiosks at Biki stations. More info: Biki (gobiki.org)
HIBIKE is Hawai’i Island’s bikeshare option in Kailua-Kona and Hilo. Purchase HIBIKE rides online, through the PBSC App, or at HIBIKE kiosks. Kiosks. More info: HIBIKE (hawaiiislandbike.com)

Bikesharing is a great option for short trips within the bike share network. For longer trips and other locales, bicycle rental can be a better option.

Bicycle rental

Bicycle rental is available on Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi. You will find most bicycle shops in tourist areas and major cities or towns (such as Windward Oʻahu and Hilo, Hawaiʻi). Search online for local bike rental shops. Hotel concierge are also good resources for recommendations on a variety of services and activities.

Moped, motor scooter, or motorcycle

The difference between a moped, motor scooter, and motorcycle are defined by Hawaiʻi state law. The basic differences are outlined below.

A moped can have two or three wheels, a maximum 50cc combustion engine and power output of two horsepower, and a top speed of 30MPH.
A motor scooter has a maximum power output of five horsepower and can’t be categorized as a moped.
A motorcycle has a handlebar and seating that requires the operator to straddle it and is designed to travel on no more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but excludes a farm tractor and a moped

Summary of Hawaiʻi moped, motor scooter, and motorcycle laws

Regulations for mopeds, motor scooters, and motorcycles are established by county. Listed below are some of the basics, plus a link to more information.

Mopeds, motor scooters, and motorcycles must be registered in the county where you reside.
Moped, motor scooter, and motorcycle operators must obey all traffic laws in the county where you ride.
Moped, motor scooter, and motorcycle operators under 18 years of age must wear a DOT-approved
Moped operators must have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet and goggles.
Motor scooter and motorcycle operators must have a motorcycle license, insurance, and appropriate goggles or windscreen.
Mopeds must be driven in bicycle lanes were provided.
Mopeds may not be driven on roadway shoulders, sidewalks, or freeways, or after dark.
Motor scooters and motorcycles may not be driven in bicycle lanes.
Two-wheeled mopeds can only be ridden by one person and may not carry passengers.

More info: Highways | Motorcycles, Motor Scooters and Mopeds General Information (hawaii.gov)

Rent a moped, motor scooter, or motorcycle

Moped, motor scooter, and motorcycle rental is available on Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi. You will find shops in tourist areas and major cities or towns (such as Kāneʻohe, Oʻahu and Hilo, Hawaiʻi). Search online for rental shops. Hotel concierges are also a good resource for recommendations.

Public Transportation Options in Hawaiʻi

Here we detail various public transportation options, including bus systems, Skyline HART light rail, and trolleys. Public transportation is available on most islands and is generally reliable and very affordable. Schedules are limited in some areas and of course can be crowded during peak times. If you plan to commute by bus, consider whether there is a direct bus line where you live, making it efficient for travel to work and errands.

Tips for riding the bus anywhere in the Hawaiian Paeʻāina

All buses are equipped with bicycle racks; you must secure your own bike. Racks are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Luggage and surfboards are not allowed on buses; all packages must be carried in your lap or fit under your seat.
Bus routes, fares, and schedules are governed by county. Find more information in the sections below.
If you have a smartphone, enter a destination in Google Maps and choose the Transit option to get suggested routes from any location.

The public transit systems for each island are summarized below, with links to more detailed information.

Hawaiʻi County public transportation

The County of Hawaiʻi Mass Transit Agency (MTA) provides a range of public transit services used by over half a million passengers annually on the island of Hawaiʻi. Transit services are provided by MTA under contract with Roberts Hawaiʻi, taxicab companies, and other organizations.

Fares are FREE throughout the entire Island of Hawaiʻi on all Hele-On commuter routes, Hele-On Kakoʻo paratransit, HI Bike (while riding on Hele-On), and specialized services for qualified individuals.
Use the Track Hele-On app for real-time location and arrival times.
Park & Ride commuter stations are available throughout the island.
Other services include a vanpool program, a shared ride taxi program, Park and Ride lots, and the Kona Trolley between Kona Commons Shopping Center and Keauhou Shopping Center.
Kona Trolley services stops along Ali’i Drive to popular shopping and dining locations throughout Kailua-Kona. The route is funded by local businesses. This route operates daily. Look for a Kona Trolley or Hele-On Bus Stop Sign or flag the trolley at a safe location. More info: Route 201: Kona Trolley | Hawaii County MTA
More info: Hele-On

Kauaʻi County public transportation

The Kaua’i Bus operates a Public (Fixed Route) bus service and a Paratransit (Door-to-Door) bus service from Hanalei to Kekaha daily.

Buy bus passes at locations around the island.
Use TheKauaiBus app for real-time location and arrival times.
More info: Kauai Bus – Kauai.gov

Maui County public transportation

Public transit service is available on Maui under contract with partner organizations. Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) provides specialized services on Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi.

Maui Bus provides service throughout Maui Island.
Kaanapali Trolley provides free hop-on hop-off service in the resort area.
MEO: Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. (meoinc.org) provides specialized transportation services at no cost to qualified community members on Maui, Lānaʻi, and Moloka’i.
Lanai Rideshare. There is no public transportation on Lānaʻi.
Lānaʻi-Maui Ferry (go-lanai.com) operates between the islands.
Molokaʻi-Maui Ferry service was suspended indefinitely in 2016. There is no public transportation on Molokaʻi.
Maui County is actively pursuing a publicly run ferry to connect Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. More info: Hawaii’s Ferry Revival: Is It Finally Happening? | Beat of Hawaii
Other transportation options include rentals cars, hotel shuttles, taxi service, Uber and Lyft, two-wheels (bikes, mopeds, motorcycles), and of course walking.

O’ahu Transportation Services

The City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is responsible for all forms of movement of people and goods on government-owned streets and roadways, including motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. More info: City & county of Honolulu Transportation (honolulu.gov)

TheBus Public Transportation

TheBus operates on Oʻahu. Use cash to pay exact fare or get HOLO Card: HOLO (holocard.net). TheBus-HEA (Honolulu Estimated Arrival) gives real-time bus arrival information on your phone.
TheHandiVan (thebus.org) provides specialized services for qualified individuals
Park & Ride commuter transit stations operate throughout the island.

Waikīkī Tourist Trolleys

Waikiki Trolley (waikikitrolley.com) open-air, hop on/off service operates on several different pre-dined loops from Waikīkī to locations throughout Honolulu. Drivers do not sell tickets. Purchase passes in advance online or at the booth inside the Waikīkī Shopping Plaza (2250 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815) from 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Daily.
HiBus Trolley (hibustrolley.com) operates several routes throughout Honolulu. urchase passes in advance online.
LeaLea Trolley (lealeatours.com) operates several routes throughout Honolulu, leaving from the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. Purchase passes in advance online.

Skyline: Honolulu Rail System

Skyline is Oʻahuʻs newest mode of transportation. Trains are scheduled to arrive at stations every 10 minutes. No cash is accepted on Skyline trains. Skyline riders must have an active HOLO card loaded with funds to board. Purchase HOLO cards at a station or participating stores around the island (including 7-Eleven, ABC Stores, Foodland, Palama Supermarket, and Times Supermarket).
All stations have bicycle parking, ADA pedestrian access, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Most stations have a drop-off area. Two stations have parking: Keoneae Station near the University of Hawaii West Oahu and Halawa Station near Aloha Stadium has a 600-space lot.
More info: Skyline | Department of Transportation Services (honolulu.gov)

Getting around by car

Car sharing

Car sharing is a platform, not a rental company. It can be more economical than renting, especially if you need a car only occasionally for short trips of less than a day. Regulations vary from state-to-state. Be sure to read agreements carefully even if you have used car share outside of Hawaiʻi. There are two basic types of car sharing: peer-to-peer with private car owners and station-based with a fleet of cars owned by the car sharing platform. Make sure to understand any extra fees that can increase the final cost. Listed below are the car sharing platforms available in Hawaiʻi.

Getaround is a peer-to-peer, contactless car sharing option available in the Honolulu Metro Area. You can search for a nearby car, book it, and unlock it from your phone. More info: getaround | Hawaii (getaround.com)
Hui is round-trip, station-based car sharing (returned to the same location) on Oʻahu. Download the Hui app, apply for membership, locate a car near you, and you are good to go. Car owners can make money when not using their car. More info: Hui Car Share (drivehui.com)
Turo is peer-to-peer car sharing of privately owned vehicles, available in most U.S. cities. We found cars available on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Lanaʻi, Maui, and Molokaʻi. Car owners can make money when not using their car. Turo also provides car owners with tools and resources to build a small portfolio of cars to share. More info: Turo car sharing (turo.com)
Zipcar is one-way, station-based car sharing in Honolulu. More info: Zipcar: Car Sharing

Rideshare

Ride sharing is one-way vehicle transportation service, much like a taxi. Listed below are ride sharing services are available in Hawaiʻi.

holoholo is a locally owned ridesharing company for kamaʻaina and tourists on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Lanaiʻ Maui, and Oʻahu. Book last minute or schedule a ride up to a year in advance. Book online or via the app. More info: holoholo (rideholoholo.com)
Lyft is available in most major cities throughout the Hawaiian Paeʻāina. To use it, To use it, download the Lyft app and create an account with a payment method. When you’re ready to go, tap ‘Search destination’ in the app, enter your drop-off location, and select your preferred ride type. More info: Ride With Lyft
Uber is available in most major cities throughout the Hawaiian Paeʻāina. To use it, download the Uber app and create an account with a payment method. When you’re ready to go, open the app, enter your destination, and choose the ride option (economy or premium). More info: Uber | Ride

Taxi

If you are arriving at the Honolulu International Airport or any of the airports on neighboring islands, we recommend the taxi line or shuttle line. There are many cab companies and airport shuttle services throughout the islands. Information about these transportation options is easily searched online or via the coconut wireless (friends and neighbors). Listed below are a couple of the major companies serving Oʻahu.

TheCAB is Oahu’s largest taxi dispatch company available 24/7 throughout the island. Book using TheCAB app, online, or by calling 808-422-2222. Never a surge charge. Kamaʻaina rates available. More info: TheCab Hawaii
Charley’s Taxi is local, 3rd generation, woman-owned transportation company on Oʻahu. Book online or by calling 808-233-3333. More info: Charley’s Taxi (charleystaxi.com)

Car rental

No car rental company always has the lowest prices because at any given time rental rates can fluctuate widely based on demand. However, listed below are several ways to find the best price every time you want or need to rent a car.

Save on rental car insurance by checking with your insurance company to see whether your policy includes coverage for rental cars for collision, liability, personal effects, and comprehensive. Also check whether the credit card you use to rent a car includes insurance for rental cars, and if so, which coverage types.
If your personal auto policy and your credit card does not include adequate insurance coverage for rental cars, you should consider purchasing insurance through the rental company. Depending on the type of coverage needed, this can more than double your rental rate.
Compare prices across several brands. You can do this through your airline when booking airfare and at travel sites such as Costco, Expedia, HotWire, Kayak, Momondo, Orbitz, Priceline, and Travelocity and others. However, after I complete my research, I prefer to book directly with the car company and often find even better prices.
Compare prices across several classes of cars. Small, economy cars are not always the lowest price because they are also in high demand. By the way, I do not recommend choosing the option that lets the car company choose the type of vehicle unless you want whatever they have leftover. Which can be less than ideal. I speak from experience….
When booking a rental car, take advantage of any available discounts, such as AAA, AARP, pay-in-advance, airline points, loyalty programs, or a package deal that includes your airfare, hotel, and car rental.
Ask about the cheapest gas option. Usually, but not always, it is to return the car with a full tank.
Be sure to return by the deadline to avoid additional charges.

Car ownership

There is no doubt about it. Car ownership is the most expensive of all transportation options. Many families have not only one, but two cars to effectively manage family activities (school, work, errands, after school activities, etc.). Others simply want the convenience of being able to go where they want, when they want. If you need or want to own your own vehicle, listed below are several ways to reduce the costs.

Ways to save on car ownership costs

Work remotely. Negotiate remote work days with your employer to reduce commuting costs, including gas, parking, and maintenance.
Use employer commuter benefits: If you are in the market for a new job, look for or negotiate commuter benefits such as employer-supplied bus passes and free or subsidized parking (especially if working in downtown Honolulu or Waikīkī where parking is expensive).
Take advantage of carpool and HOV benefits: To encourage ride sharing and reduce traffic congestion, HDOT provides High Occupancy Vehicles Lanes (HOV) and Zipper Lanes that are reserved for the exclusive use of buses, carpools, motorcycles, and EV-licensed vehicles. HDOT also operates a free carpool matching service. More info: HDOT Rideshare
Look for auto insurance bundles: Shop around for the best car insurance rates and consider bundling it with other policies (home, life, umbrella) to potentially save money.
Monitor Gas Prices: Stay informed about gas prices in your area and always fill up when prices are lower (usually Monday-Wednesday, especially before holiday weekends).
Combine Errands into one planned route to keep mileage to a minimum, saving on fuel and maintenance costs.
Maintain your vehicle according to your car owner’s manual or use the suggested auto maintenance schedule below.

Tips to maximize fuel efficiency

Don’t store heavy items in your car if not needed for your current trip, extra weight uses more fuel.
Keep tires properly inflated, low tire pressure uses more fuel.
Keep your car in good running condition (see section below on suggested auto maintenance ).
Use regular gas (unless you have a high-performance vehicle, e.g. a sports car or luxury car).
Use synthetic oil, which costs more but saves in the long run by increasing fuel efficiency and extending the life of your engine as long as possible.
Use A/C only at highway speeds (>40 mph) with A/C at lowest possible setting. At lower speeds on city streets (<40 mph), turn off A/C and open windows.
Drive at a steady pace, don’t suddenly step on the gas or the brake.
When idling for two minutes or longer, turn off the engine.

Suggested auto maintenance schedule

Regular pre-emptive maintenance keeps your car in good running condition. If you want your vehicle to last the longest possible time and reduce fuel costs, maintain it regularly as suggested below.

Note: I tried skimping to save money and ended up with a car that quit in the middle of the road and hefty repair costs. When I averaged it out, the repairs totaled what I should have been paying over a five-year period to maintain the car. Avoidance isn’t cheaper and catches up with you eventually! If you skimp on maintenance, not only will it reduce fuel efficiency, but you’ll also eventually end up needing costly maintenance. So, “pay as you go” is the best advice.

Ongoing car care:

Check oil level every time you fill up the gas tank. If needed, top it off (with the correct oil).
If covered parking is not available, cover your car with a fitted cover.
After visiting a beach, rinse the car with fresh water (just like you and your surfboard), including the underside.
Replace any light bulbs as soon as you notice they have gone out. Be sure to check the bulb isn’t merely loose!
Service your vehicle anytime you hear strange noises, the car “leans” to one side, the ride seems bumpier than usual (check tire pressure!), the vehicle exhaust develops smoke or odor, or of course if dash warning lights come on.

Every 5,000 Miles:

Check and top off any fluids including windshield washer, power steering, coolant, and transmission.
Clean wiper blades and replace if they are still leaving streaks on the windshield.
Check all lights and replace any that are not working (interior, headlights, brake lights, turn signals).
Wash your car at least once a month using car washing soap (not dish or household soap) using a clean, soft cloth or sponge. Look for signs of rust or paint damage; contact a body shop at the first sign of any problems.
Replace oil, oil filter, and air filters. However, some types of oil can go 10,000 miles.
Inspect tread, rotate, and rebalance tires. However, with an an AWD car, you can do this every 10,000 miles.

Every 30,000 Miles:

Replace air filter. If vog is prevalent, have it tested or change it every 15,000 miles.
Replace the fuel filter.
Replace brake fluid.
Re-surface brake rotors (can be done once, then must be replaced)
Inspect brake pads and replace if needed (may last up to as 50,000 miles).
Inspect all belts and hoses for cracking and replace, if needed.
Inspect ignition system, including alternator if your car has one (EV and hybrids typically do not; check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic). If needed, replace spark plugs and spark plug wires (copper plugs last 30,000 miles, iridium or titanium plugs can last 90k-100k).
Inspect suspension system.
Test and adjust air conditioning system as needed.
For manual transmissions, drain, clean, and refill with new fluid.
Drain, flush, and replace power steering fluid.
Check tire tread; if needed replace tires in sets. If you can insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head upside down and the top of his head is flush with the surface of the tire, then your tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch—the tire is bald and must be replaced. A set of tires lasts an average of three to six years.
Wax your car at least once per year. First, wash and dry the car. Apply wax in a shaded area using a clean poly foam applicator, then buff with a microfiber towel.

Every 50,000 Miles:

Inspect battery for signs of leakage, test to make sure it is still recharging, and replace as needed.
For automatic transmissions, drain and replace fluid and filter.

Every 60,000-90,000 Miles:

Replace brake rotors (resurfacing can be done once, around 30,000 miles).
Flush the cooling system and replace coolant.
Replace all hoses and belts before 100k miles as they are nearing the end of their useful life.
Change timing belt before 100k miles (between 75k-90k). Timing chains last longer.
Replace spark plugs and spark plug wires by 100k.
Though regular washing, waxing, and covering is often adequate, consider having the car undercoated every 5-10 years by a reputable dealer. Note that poor undercoating is worse than no undercoating.
Perform all other maintenance and inspections above from 5,000 to 50,000 miles.

After 100k, start the whole sequence over! If well-maintained, the lifespan of a vehicle can be 200,000 miles, though with Hawaii’s humidity, sun exposure, and salt air tends to reduce average lifespan about 25%. Some types of cars fare better than others. Two of Hawaii’s most popular car brands, Honda and Toyota, are known for longevity and some are known to have exceeded 250,000 miles with ideal conditions and maintenance.

Event calendar of free and affordable things to do

Listed below are all types of free and affordable things to do in the next 30 days across the Hawaiʻi Pae ʻĀina.

Featured Events are listed first each day, highlighted by a photo. These are unique, popular, or annual events that we or our advertisers don’t want you to overlook.

You might also like: Hawaiʻi on the Cheap – affordable living and things to do (hawaiionthecheap.com)