One of the best places you can visit for a vacation is Hawaii. Many people think that Hawaii is just one small island, but it is actually made up of several different islands, all with unique things to see. You may be unsure about how you can get around these islands, which is why we have put together this article. If you seek a destination that offers outdoor exploration, beach enjoyment, waterfall visits, mountain climbing, ocean snorkeling, volcano summit hikes, and more, you’ll find your ideal experience on the Big Island, especially through best Big Island tours.
Airlines
Easily the most popular way to get around the islands is to utilize air travel. There are plenty of inter-island flights that can connect you to various islands. These flights are short and frequent. The main carrier in Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines, has jets connecting to all the islands.
The smaller islands have smaller airports and airlines that will allow you to get around, just not as frequently. These prop planes fly lower than jets and could even be seen as sightseeing opportunities.
It will be best to book as early as possible for these inter-island flights, as the fares could be much more expensive on the day. It’s also important to be aware of airline regulations in Hawaii referring to surfboards and other uncommon items, as it can be confusing at times.
Boat
If you’re looking to get around the islands, you will find it just as effective to take a boat. There is an interisland ferry route that runs several times a day. It runs between Lahaina on Maui and Lana’i. You will be able to use these ferry routes for day trips and just regular transport.
There are also entire cruises that you can book from some of the major islands, but that will be a completely different type of vacation altogether.Of course, you can also look to acquire a sailboat or even a jet ski to explore the waters around Hawaii.
Car
Depending on where exactly in Hawaii you’re going, a car may be all that you need. Of course, you won’t be able to bring your own car, or it at least won’t be worth it. In this situation, you should look for a hire car.
A hire car won’t be as useful for you if you are only heading towards Honolulu or Waikiki, as you will be within close distance to everywhere you need. If you plan on heading out of the resort and the main town area, then you will benefit from renting a car. These islands’ outskirts and more rural areas may be more demanding and require a specific vehicle. In these situations, you may benefit from hiring an off-road vehicle, such as a jeep or 4×4.
You will find that most airports will have car rental offices on-site, as well as in the resort areas. With that said, you should look into options online before you get there. You may even be able to organize a car ready to pick upon-site.
It’s also crucial that you compare different sites and car rental services to find the best car rental provider in the Hawaii age. Car rentals in Hawaii Oahu couldn’t be easier to compare. Ensure that you are comparing the same cars from different providers to know you’re getting the best deal for yourself.
Busses
Locals of Hawaii use the local bus network to get around. Public buses may be a bit too much effort to get your head around for a short stay, but you will find that it is a simpler process on Oahu. They have a public transit service network, which means there are regular busses, clearly signposted, to know where you’re going and at what time. The main bus network here is known as TheBus, and should be easy to find across the islands.
There are bus routes coming out from Honolulu, which will allow you to get to and from Waikiki, so you should be able to get to everywhere you want. The good news is that the service is affordable and frequent enough that you don’t have to plan too far ahead.
Once you are out of the main tourist areas, you will find that most public bus routes will be focuses on resident commuters, with less frequent services. There is another bus network across Hawaii, known as Maui Bus. However, this bus doesn’t go as far as Hana or Haleakala National Park, so bare that in mind when you’re trying to get around.
Taxis
The main islands of Hawaii will have plenty of taxis for you to use. Most will use metered fares based on how far you go, but some taxi firms will offer flat rates. Of course, the amount you pay for a taxi will vary, as with any country, but the average should start you off at $3 before ramping up.
Depending on where you’re traveling from and where you want to go, there should be a range of ways to hail a cab for when you need them. You will find them available from the airport and most hotels and resorts. Of course, you can always call them to come pick you up.
Ride-sharing apps are available on the larger islands that allow you to book and pre-book pick-ups and drop-offs. Taxis may be more expensive than some of the other options listed within this article, but you will find that it is likely going to get you to the exact spot you want/need.
Motorcycles
If you’re looking for a different way to travel the islands, then a motorcycle could be the best option for you. You can choose between a moped or a motorcycle, and while they aren’t common, you will find some offerings in major resort areas.
You will need to hold a valid driver’s license, with the minimum age being 16, to ride a moped. For a motorcycle, you will need to be at least 21. Importantly, state law here declares that one person can only ride mopeds at a time. You also won’t be able to ride them on the sidewalks or any freeways.
Cycling
A fun, greener way to travel the islands is to cycle. Cycling is popular in Hawaii, but it can still be a challenge. That is because many of the roads across the islands are quite narrow, meaning that it can be difficult to get out of the way of traffic. Also, there are often tropical downpours, which could add an element of risk to your cycling.
If you plan to do some long-distance cycling, you should ensure that you are doing so with a tour group. If you’re a confident cycler, then you may be able to do so on your own but be careful.
You will be able to rent bikes from most tourist areas, from high-end road bikes to hybrid models, depending on what you’re looking for. You may be able to save some money by looking into multi-day and weekly deals too. A lot of the busses across Hawaii have bicycle racks ready to assist. You just need to let your driver know.
However you decide to get around Hawaii, it’s important you’re aware of the different options available and do your research ahead of time. This will help you feel more organized and save you money.