Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Honolulu Airport - HNL)
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) provides convenient access to TheBus, Oʻahu’s award-winning public transportation system operated by the City & County of Honolulu. TheBus is one of the most economical and reliable ways to travel between the airport and major destinations across the island — including Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Downtown Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Whether you're a visitor exploring Honolulu on a budget or a resident commuting to work or school, TheBus offers a practical, clean, and well-connected transit option directly from HNL.
TheBus connects the airport to business districts, shopping centers, universities, neighborhoods, and major visitor attractions across Oʻahu. With extensive routes, consistent schedules, and affordable fares, TheBus is ideal for travelers who don’t plan to rent a car or use taxis/rideshare.
Benefits of using TheBus from HNL include:
• Low fares
• Island-wide route coverage
• Air-conditioned, ADA-accessible buses
• Bike racks on most buses
• Real-time bus tracking via apps
Service runs seven days a week, with increased frequency on weekdays.
TheBus stops for the airport are located on the second-level roadway (departures level) outside Terminals 1 and 2.
How to get there:
1. After collecting luggage, take an escalator or elevator up to the Departures Level
2. Exit curbside and look for TheBus stop signs
3. Confirm the route number displayed on the bus’s front LED screen
Airport staff can assist travelers in locating the correct stop. Keep in mind that large checked suitcases may not be permitted if they block aisles or seating.
Below are some of the most commonly used routes for visitors and residents traveling to and from the airport:
Route 20 – Airport / Waikīkī / Ala Moana
Primary Destinations:
• Waikīkī Beach
• Ala Moana Center
• Downtown Honolulu
• Chinatown
Frequency: 20–30 minutes, daily
Ideal For: Visitors heading to Waikīkī hotels and shopping areas
Route 303 – Airport / Hickam
Primary Destinations:
• Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam
• Nimitz Highway corridor
Frequency: Weekdays only
Ideal For: Military travelers and airport employees
Route 40 – Airport via Hālawa / North Shore transfer point
Primary Destinations:
• Pearl Harbor area
• Wahiawā (transfer point to North Shore routes)
Frequency: 20–30 minutes
Ideal For: Travelers connecting from HNL toward Central Oʻahu or North Shore
✔ Use a HOLO Card: The HOLO stored-value transit card is the easiest way to pay. Tap the card on the reader when boarding — daily and monthly fare caps apply.
✔ Bring Exact Fare if Paying Cash: Drivers do not make change. Cash fare must be exact.
✔ Plan Luggage Wisely: Carry-ons must fit on your lap or under your seat. Oversized bags may not be allowed during busy commuter times.
✔ Check Schedules in Advance: Routes may have reduced frequency late at night and early morning.
Useful resources:
• TheBus website trip planner
• HOLO card website
• Transit and Google Maps for real-time route tracking
With direct or single-transfer rides from the airport, travelers can reach:
• Waikīkī Beach
• Ala Moana Center
• Downtown Honolulu & Chinatown
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center / USS Arizona Memorial
• Bishop Museum
• University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
• Neal Blaisdell Center
• Hawaiʻi State Capitol
• Honolulu Museum of Art
Pair your trip with walking tours, bike rentals, or guided attractions for affordable island exploration.
If TheBus schedule or luggage restrictions don’t fit your needs, other transportation options include:
• Taxis: Available curbside 24/7
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Designated pickup zones at Terminals 1 & 2
• Rental Cars: Connected via consolidated Rental Car Center shuttle
• Hotel Shuttles: Offered by many Waikīkī hotels with reservation
• Private Shuttle / Limo / Charter Vans: Ideal for groups and special occasions
TheBus is an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers who want mobility across Oʻahu. Popular attractions reachable for just a few dollars include:
• Pearl Harbor Memorials
• Aloha Tower Marketplace
• Magic Island & Ala Moana Beach Park
• Honolulu Zoo & Waikīkī Aquarium
• Kakaʻako murals and waterfront parks
With the HOLO card’s fare cap, riders never pay more than the value of a day pass per day — making TheBus one of the best deals on the island.
TheBus service at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport provides visitors and residents with a safe, clean, and cost-effective way to travel between the airport and destinations throughout Oʻahu. By checking schedules in advance, planning luggage around system rules, and using a HOLO card for effortless payment, travelers can enjoy smooth and affordable transit directly from the airport.
For the most accurate schedules and fare details, visit:
• TheBus.org
• HoloCard.net
• Google Maps / Transit real-time trip planner