Traveling to Hawaii and wondering about Uber in Honolulu?
The largest city in Oahu, Honolulu is the capital of the state and a popular starting point for island hopping in Hawaii. Many visitors arrive in Honolulu first before going to other islands, and Uber is a perfect way to explore popular parts of Oahu, especially Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor Memorial, Ala Moana Shopping Center and Hanauma Bay.
In this article, I will take a look at what you can expect when taking Uber in Oahu and learn about other transportation options.
🚘 SKIP THE WAIT. BOOK A PRIVATE TRANSFER TO YOUR HOTEL
IS THERE AN UBER IN HONOLULU?
Yes, there’s Uber in Honolulu. You can use it to get around the city and also get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki and surrounding areas. Since Oahu is the most populous island of Hawaii, getting Uber is not hard, especially in popular areas with high tourist traffic.
I had a pretty limited experience with Uber in Honolulu, as I rented a car for my trip, but I heard many stories from my friends who had mostly good reviews of the ride-sharing app while visiting the island.
HOW IS UBER FROM HONOLULU AIRPORT TO WAIKIKI?
Uber from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki costs $25-30 on the lower end and can be as high as $50 during busy times when there are more requests than available drivers.
➡️ If the price of Uber from Honolulu Airport is above $45 at the time of your arrival, I recommend waiting until the surge ends. You usually need around 10-15 minutes to start seeing different rates. Close and open your app, so you get new information.
Use Uber Price Estimator to calculate Uber price in Honolulu
Since Uber prices in Honolulu Airport change depending on the season and timing, use an Uber price estimator to get a better idea of what prices are like during a given time.
I’ve spoken to some travelers who have paid as much as $60 and $70 for an Uber from Honolulu Airport. This is VERY expensive, and if you see a rate like this, you should wait it out!
Another option is to book private transfer ahead of your trip, which will be cheaper, if you split it with other travelers.
✅ BOOK YOUR TRANSFER FROM HONOLULU AIRPORT
Why you should check Uber prices ahead of your trip
Start checking Uber prices in Honolulu in the Uber price estimator ahead of your trip. Set the exact day and hour when your flight will arrive at the airport, and see what you get.
This is a good thing to do, especially if you are traveling during the busy season, from December through April. It should give you a good idea of what Uber will cost and avoid any shockers when you arrive.
If you see higher prices, it’s best to wait it out.
WHERE IS UBER PICK-UP AT HONOLULU AIRPORT?
Uber at Honolulu Airport picks up passengers on the second floor. The designated pick-up areas are located in front of Lobby 2, Lobby 5, and Lobby 8.
The Honolulu Airport doesn’t have very good signage toward the Uber pick-up area, so if you have any questions, ask the airport staff.
As you get to the second floor, you should be able to see some signs that guide you toward the lobbies and cross the road to the Uber pick-up spots that are located in the median. If you are in the right area, you should see other traveleres waiting for their Uber rides.
OTHER WAYS TO GET FROM HONOLULU AIRPORT TO WAIKIKI
Honolulu Airport, the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), is the busiest in Hawaii with dozens of daily arrivals from the mainland United States. Aside from Uber, you can also use other options for getting to your hotel from Honolulu Airport.
Private transfer from Honolulu Airport
If you are arriving in Honolulu after a long flight, and would rather have a stress-free trip, booking a private shuttle is a perfect idea. This way, you don’t have to navigate the airport, look for Uber stops or negotiate rates.
Your driver will pick you up at the arrivals and transport you straight to the airport in the air-conditioned vehicle.
Best private transfers from Honolulu Airport
✅ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRANSFER FROM HONOLULU AIRPORT
Car rentals
If you want to enjoy Oahu beyond downtown Honolulu, visit the northern side of the island, go hiking and explore less crowded beaches, you need to rent a car.
Oahu is incredible, and if you spend your vacation in downtown Honolulu, you will miss out on too many things! I recommend renting a car at Honolulu Airport as soon as you land. This way, you don’t have to pay for a taxi or Uber in Honolulu to get to your car rental agency.
The downside of renting a car at the Honolulu Airport is that it could be slightly more expensive, than away from the airport. To avoid the high fees, book your vehicle with DiscoverCars, my favorite car rental platform where you can find dozens of vehicles at affordable rates.
DiscoverCars has no hidden costs or high fees that don’t show up until you arrive at a car rental office. In other words, you pay exactly what you see online.
Type in your travel dates and type in the preferred make and model of your vehicle.
✅ CLICK HERE TO RENT A CAR IN HONOLULU
Is it cheaper to rent a Car or Uber in Hawaii?
Renting a car in Hawaii in many cases is cheaper than getting an Uber. If you take Uber daily, it could end up being more expensive than a daily rate for a car rental. Plus, renting a car will allow you to explore the island and visit incredible beaches, hike scenic trails, and get off the beaten path.
Guided tours
Guided tours of Honolulu are perfect for those travelers who don’t plan on renting a car but still want to see the island outside of Waikiki.
This small group tour of Oahu is perfect is you want to see the highlights of the island in a short time. The tour stops at Diamond Head, the Halona Blowhole, Byodo-In Temple and the historic Haleiwa Town.
You’ll also visit the famous Dole Plantation where you’ll get a delicious Dole pineapple!
✅ BOOK A POPULAR TOUR OF OAHU HIGHLIGHTS
Another option is to choose a tour of one of the most popular spots in Oahu like Hanauma Bay where you can snorkel with turtles or book guaranteed tickets to Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial.
Book one of the most popular Honolulu tours
All guided tours in Oahu include a pick-up and top-off at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about anything – all you need to do is listen to your guide and have a great time!
Another popular tour is Hidden Gems of Oahu – Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall which offers an introduction to some of the most beautiful parts of the island.
Can you take an Uber to Pearl Harbor?
Yes, you can take an Uber to Pearl Harbor. It’s much easier to get Uber in popular areas of the island rather than in remote, rural spots.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO PEARL HARBOR
How much is Uber from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor?
If you are taking Uber from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor, be operated to pay between $30-45 for your ride, depending on the timing of your trip.
Read: Uber in Kauai
Uber to Hanauma Bay
An Uber ride from downtown Honolulu to Hanauma Bay costs an average of $30, so you might consider booking a snorkeling tour of Hanauma Bay, as it’s going to be slightly cheaper.
HOW TO USE UBER IN HONOLULU
Uber operates in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is a popular and convenient option for transportation in the city. To use Uber in Honolulu, you will need to have the Uber app installed on your smartphone.
Here’s how you can request an Uber:
- Download the Uber app: Visit your smartphone’s app store and search for Uber. Download the app.
- Create an account: Open the app and follow the prompts to create an account. You will need to provide some personal information and a valid payment method.
- Set your pickup location: Open the app and allow it to access your location. It will automatically detect your current location. If it doesn’t, you can manually enter your pickup address.
- Request a ride: Tap on the “Where to?” field in the app and enter your desired destination. The app will show an estimated fare and various types of Uber, such as UberX, UberXL, or Uber Black.
- Confirm your request: After selecting your ride type, review the estimate and confirm your request.
- Wait for your driver: The Uber app will show you the driver’s details, including their name, photo, and the car. You can track the driver’s location on the map in real time as they approach your location.
Remember that availability and wait times for Uber may vary depending on the time of day and demand. It’s always a good idea to check the app for real-time availability and pricing information.
Is there Lyft in Honolulu?
Lyft is a popular alternative to Uber on the island, which is great to get around popular spots in the city and surrounding areas. Just like with Uber, you can order Lyft through the app on your phone.
HOW TO GET AROUND HONOLULU
Rental car
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Many major car rental companies have locations at the Honolulu International Airport, as well as in the downtown area.
Can you do Honolulu without a car?
Yes, you can easily do Honolulu without a car. The entire downtown area is walkable and offers plenty of things to do, so you can easily get around on foot or by taking a bus to popular areas like Waikiki and Ala Moana.
The Bus
The Bus is Oahu’s public bus system and offers an extensive network of routes throughout Honolulu and the rest of the island. It is an affordable option, and you can find route maps and schedules on their website.
You can use public buses in Hawaii to get to popular places like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor Memorial, or North Shore. Although it’s going to be cheaper than a ride share, it will take longer, which means you should always allow some extra time for your trip.
Biki Bikes
Biki is a bike-sharing program in Honolulu, offering a network of self-service bicycles available at various stations throughout the city. You can rent a bike using their app or at one of the kiosks and enjoy exploring downtown Honolulu and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Taxis are available in Honolulu, and you can find them at designated taxi stands or request one through phone apps or by calling a local taxi company.
Walking
Honolulu is relatively pedestrian-friendly, especially in popular areas like Waikiki. Walking allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the city at a leisurely pace, and it’s an excellent way to explore areas with heavy traffic and limited parking.
What is the easiest way to get around Honolulu?
The easiest way to get around Oahu is by taking Oahu’s public system, called TheBus, which has an extensive route network around the island. For more detailed information on exact routes and bus schedules, check their website.
What’s the best way to get around Oahu?
The best way to get around Oahu is by renting a car. This way, you can plan your trip however you like and don’t rely on public transportation or expensive rideshares.
BEST AREAS TO STAY IN HONOLULU
Honolulu offers many neighborhoods to stay in, each with its unique charm and appeal. Here are some of the best areas to consider when looking for hotels in Honolulu:
1. Waikiki
Waikiki is a popular neighborhood known for its iconic beach, high-rise hotels, and busy atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for tourists because it offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. It also provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
2. Downtown Honolulu
If you prefer a more cosmopolitan experience, Downtown Honolulu might be a good choice. It offers proximity to historic sites, the State Capitol, Chinatown, and the Ala Moana Shopping Center.
3. Ala Moana
Adjacent to Waikiki, Ala Moana is known for its shopping center, Ala Moana, one of the largest open-air malls in the United States. The area has a mix of luxury hotels, condominiums, and vacation rentals. It’s a convenient location for beach access, shopping, and dining.
4. Kaka’ako
This up-and-coming neighborhood between Downtown Honolulu and Ala Moana boasts a trendy and modern atmosphere with new condominiums, boutique hotels, and art galleries. Kaka’ako is known for its vibrant street art as well as dining and entertainment options.
5. Manoa
For a quieter and more residential experience, choose Manoa. This neighborhood is nestled against the lush greenery of the Ko’ola Mountains and is home to the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Manoa offers a mix of vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and smaller hotels.
It’s a great choice if you prefer a peaceful retreat while still being relatively close to downtown Honolulu.
BEST HOTELS IN HONOLULU
- Budget: Bamboo Waikiki Hotel – If you are looking for a great pirce and convenient location near the beach, you can’t miss this hotel in the heart of Waikiki.
- Mid-budget: Shoreline Hotel Waikiki – Located less than 5 minutes’ walk from Waikiki Beach, this hotel is close to most places and has free water refills as well as coffee. Staff is super friendly.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Residences – One of the best luxury hotels in Waikiki, Ritz Carlton is a gorgeosu property with amenities and friendly service.
UBER IN HONOLULU: FAQ’S
Is there Uber in Hawaii?
Uber is available on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, but its availability largely depends on the area. While you can usually get an Uber in manjor tourist areas, rural areas of Hawaii are not likley have ride sharing services.
Is Uber safe in Honolulu?
Uber is generally safe in Honolulu, as the company makes every driver go through a background check and also requires frequent vehicle inspections. The app tracks your location, so every trip you take is recorded in the system. It’s always a good idea to take reasonable precautions and keep a low profile so your ride goes smoothly, and you and the driver have a good experience.
Does Uber work in Honolulu?
Yes, Uber works in Honolulu. Many travelers use Uber to get around downtown Honolulu and other popular areas. While you can easily find Uber in the city, it could be more difficult to get a ride in remote parts of the island where ride-sharing services aren’t readily available.
Are Ubers hard to get in Honolulu?
Uber is usually readily available in Honolulu, and you should have no problem finding a ride. During times when demand is high, such as during peak tourist seasons or major events, you may have to wait longer or pay higher rates. If you are in the rural parts of the island like the North Shore, finding a ride will be more difficult, as there are not a lot of Uber drivers around.
Is Uber cheaper than a taxi in Hawaii?
Uber and other ride-sharing services tend to be more cost-effective than traditional taxis in many locations, including Hawaii. However, it’s important to note that prices can vary depending on factors such as distance, time of day, and demand.
Taxis in Hawaii typically operate on a metered system, where the fare is based on distance and time. While taxis can be convenient, especially if you find one readily available, they may have additional fees, such as airport surcharges or baggage charges.
Is it cheaper to rent a car or Uber in Hawaii?
It’s cheaper to rent a car in Hawaii, as Uber can be expensive, especially during the high season when the demand outweighs the number of available drivers. In addition, renting a car will allow you to see parts of the island that can’t be accessed by Uber or public transportation.
Are taxis cheaper than Uber in Honolulu?
Taxis are usually more expensive in Honolulu, especially around popular areas. Most taxis in Honolulu have a meter, which means you pay for the timing of your trip and not for the distance, as you do with Uber. If you get stuck in traffic, you could pay a steep price.
How much is Uber in Hawaii?
The price of Uber in Hawaii depends on your location and the timing of your trip. While Uber is readily available in popular tourist areas like Honolulu, Lahaina, or Kona, it’s more difficult to get in rural areas. To find out Uber price for a given trip, use the Uber price estimator.
UBER IN HONOLULU: FINAL WORD
Uber is a fast and convenient way to get around downtown Honolulu and visit major landmarks like Pearl Harbor Memorial, and explore Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay and other areas within driving distance from the city center. If you want to explore the island off the beaten and enjoy some of the best hikes and less crowded beaches, consider renting a car for your trip to Honolulu.