Best Of Hawaii - Transportation Information & Services - Hawaiian Islands Vacation Travel

<body text="#0000A0" link="#CC00FF" vlink="#008800" BGCOLOR =#FFFFFF BACKGROUND="bcldblue.jpg"> <font color="c9e9fe"><center><h6><i>hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii hawaii </i></h6></center></font> <CENTER> <A NAME="load"></A><a href="index.html#load"><IMG SRC="boh_log7.gif" ALT="Best Of Hawaii.com" BORDER=0 WIDTH=539 HEIGHT=133></a> <P><font COLOR="#cd7f32"><font size=6>Transportation</font></font><BR><font size=6>Survival Guide & Service Links</font><BR> <A NAME="MenuTop"></A> <CENTER> <TABLE BORDER=10 WIDTH=95% CELLPADDING=0 CELLSPACING=5> <TR><TD> <TABLE CELLSPACING=5 CELLPADDING=0 BORDER=0 > </TD> <TD><TABLE WIDTH=0> </TD></TABLE> </TD> <TD><TR><TD VALIGN=TOP ALIGN=MIDDLE> </center><STRONG>Visitor's Survival Guide - Tips for getting around on each Island.</STRONG> Start here, then go to Services.</font> <font SIZE=3> <IMG SRC="tranmult.gif" WIDTH=146 HEIGHT=100 ALIGN=RIGHT VSPACE=30 HSPACE=10> <UL> <LI><A HREF="#general">General Info</A> <LI><A HREF="#oahu">Oahu</A> <LI><A HREF="#maui">Maui</A> <LI><A HREF="#bigis">Big Island</A> <LI><A HREF="#kauai">Kauai</A> <LI><A HREF="#molokai">Molokai</A> <LI><A HREF="#lanai">Lanai</A> </UL> </TD> </table> <TD ALIGN=MIDDLE VALIGN=TOP width=0> <BR><STRONG>Transportation Services<font SIZE=3></STRONG> <BR></center> </strong> <UL> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#Airfares">Discount Airfares</A> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#RCars">Rental Cars</A> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#ECars">Exotic Cars</A> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#Limo">Limos</A> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#Moto">Motorcycles</A> <LI><A HREF="tranlink.htm#Moto">Mopeds</A> <LI><a href="#bus">Bus Info</A> <LI><A HREF="#taxi">Taxi Service</A> <LI><A HREF="#courtesy">Courtesy Transportation</A> </UL> </TABLE> </TABLE> </center></center> <CENTER><IMG SRC="rainbow.gif" HEIGHT=3 width =100%> <P><a href="sitemap.htm"><IMG SRC="baloon.gif" IMG BORDER="0" width=60 height=66 ALIGN=left HSPACE=10></a><BR><font size=3><STRONG>Click on the Balloon and go to our <a href="sitemap.htm">Site Map</a> for a "birds eye view" of the territory. From there you can shortcut to any page on this web site.</STRONG></font><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="rainbow.gif" width =100%><br></CENTER><br> <A NAME="general"></A><CENTER><P><font size=5>General Transportation Info<BR> that applies to all Hawaiian Islands.</font></P></CENTER> <P><font size=5>T</font>The first thing to remember is that all of the Hawaiian Islands are quite different from each other. In regards to transportation, this means the islands have different "local" weather, topography, traffic patterns, and other "practical" considerations to evaluate when selecting a mode of transportation. However, the following general information applies to all islands. To get specific tips, go down this page and find the Island(s) you plan to visit. Then read about what is available locally before selecting how you're going to get from point "A" to your destination.</P> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Rental Cars</STRONG></font> are available on all islands but it is a VERY good idea to make your reservations well in advance to your arrival, since the cars are frequently sold out - even when tourism is not that busy. This is important because on some of the islands, it is the only "practical" way to get around.</P> <P>However, there are other options that you can select to minimize your driving. For instance, many (if not most) of the activities, tours, and hotels offer pick up & delivery services. This can be a good option because it'll save you from having to follow directions and keep tract of a lot of Hawaiian street names that may sound confusing to visitors; (sometimes they seems to all start with the letter "K" - followed by a strange collection of vowels - Kamehameha, Kapiolani, Kaulakaula, Kealakekua, Kaleopapa, Kuikini, Keihi... just to name a few). </P> <P> Courtesy pick-ups will also save you the frustration of finding a place to park when you reach your destination. If you are out at night - for instance on a dinner cruise - courtesy transportation can help you avoid driving after you've had perhaps too much "celebration"... and besides, you'll save on gas which currently is running between $1.89 to $2.15 per gallon (yep, that's not a misprint).</P> <P>If you do rent a car, be sure to ask what the rental companies' requirements are. If you are a young driver, find out the minimum age for car rentals - some companies will not rent to anyone under 25, for instance. If you have a poor driving record, you should also tactfully inquire about their "driving record" policy; i.e., is driving record a factor when renting a car.</P> <P>In addition to a valid driver's license, expect that you will need a <STRONG>valid credit card</STRONG> to rent a car - and many companies require the name on the license to match the name on the credit card. Also, keep in mind that most "gold cards" provide car rental insurance that will allow you to waive the expensive rental car companies' optional coverage. In order to take advantage of credit card rental car insurance, you must actually <EM>use</EM> the card when you rent the car, of course. Be sure to check ahead with your credit card company to see to what extent you are covered and keep in mind your coverage may not extend to "exotic" or certain "recreational" vehicles - so don't assume that you are covered, get the specifics from your credit card company.</P> <P>Hot tip; Frequently, when you reserve a car in the "economy" class, the car company will "upgrade" your selection to a mid size or luxury car. They do this because economy cars usually sell out first and therefore may be in short supply on the day of your arrival. This means you might be able to reserve the least expensive car but still drive away in a more expensive model for the price of economy. Be sure to ask the agent when you check in to pick up your car. However, if you want a special car -like a convertible - then it is best to request the specific model you desire.</P> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Limo Service</STRONG></font> is an excellent way to get around - provided it is within your financial means. Prices vary of course, but in general you can rent them by the hour, day, or even week. Be sure to ask the company about their options. Limos give you the advantage of "leaving the driving to someone else" and allowing you to make your party "transportable". Most are equipped with the standard features; bar, phone, TV, music system, etc. Another advantage is that you will frequently arrive closer to "the door" of your destination since many establishments and activities give preferential parking and drop-off treatment to Limos.<P> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Motorcycles</STRONG></font> are another option, however keep in mind that the weather can change frequently and dramatically (yes, it does rain in paradise - only difference is the rain is usually warmer that what you are used to). To travel short distances on sunny days, motorcycles can be good fun. However, unless you are a die-hard enthusiast, they can also be inconvenient should your route take you through excessive rain and wind.<P> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Mopeds</STRONG></font> have all of the same considerations as motorcycles with a few more. First of all, Mopeds are not motorcycles, nor are they bicycles. They require the rider to exercise immense caution. Normally their top speed on level ground is about 35mph and they are quite underpowered going up hills. Since there are a lot of steep hills in Hawaii you need to know the topography of the areas you plan to traverse. Therefore, if you plan to rent a moped, anticipate that you will use it for short excursions and plan to avoid moped trips that will take you long distances or up country - and exercise extreme caution, especially in traffic.</P> <A NAME="bus"></A> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Bus Service</STRONG></font> is available on many of the Islands, however it is most practical for visitor use <b>only</b> on Oahu. The outer Islands that have Bus Service do not offer the flexibility of schedules to satisfy most visitors. Therefore we do not recommend relying on bus service anywhere other than in the Honolulu / Waikiki Area and resently all buses on Oahu were equipped with bike racks. <A NAME="taxi"></A> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Taxi Service</STRONG></font> is available and abundant at all of the airports and also easy to acquire at most of the Waikiki hotels. It can be expensive, however, due to the distance from the airports to the hotels. For instance, here's the current Taxi rates from the airport to specific areas of each of the main Islands; <STRONG>Oahu</STRONG> - to Waikiki, $20-30; <STRONG>Maui</STRONG> - to Kihei, $27 & up... to Wailea, $30 & up... to Kapulua, $48 & up... to Lahaina, $38 & up... to Hana, bad idea; <STRONG>Kauai</STRONG> - to Poipu, $31... to Hanalei, $65; <STRONG>Big Island</STRONG> - to Kona, $15-$25... to Kohala $32 & up... to Hilo, forget it!</P> <P>For more information regarding taxi service for short hops on each island, see the specific islands listed below.</P> <A NAME="courtesy"></A> <P><STRONG><font COLOR="#cd7f32">Courtesy Pick up & Delivery</font></STRONG> - Many hotels as well as most of the activity services offer to pick you up and take you back to your hotel or condo provided you are on their route. Be sure to ask about this option when booking a hotel, condo, or activity. Courtesy trans can be a very good way to avoid the frustration of traffic, parking, and finding your way around. It is also a good way to save on gas as well as providing an automatic "designated driver" should you be in need of one on your return from your fun. The only disadavantages are that you may have to take the "scenic" route to your destination stopping along the way to gather more passengers and that you will have to return to your abode before you can depart for another destination after the activity. </P> <P>It is concievable that you could forgo having to rent a car if you choose to rely on courtesy transportation, however this will require that you plan carefully and keep a tight schedule so you never miss your ride. All in all, our best recommendation is to rent a car and use courtesy trans to supplement your movements from point "A" to point "B".</P> <A NAME="oahu"></A><CENTER><img src="rainbow.gif" border=0 height=3 width =100% align=center ></CENTER> <CENTER><P><font size=5>Getting Around on Oahu</font></P></CENTER> <P>The first thing to remember about Oahu is that you will arrive in the city of Honolulu and home to the only freeways in Hawaii. The pace can be fast and furious and sometimes traffic jams and parking problems are a reality. </P> <P>On Oahu you have many transportation options. The obvious first is Rental Car. If you are planning to circumnavigate the Island, this is the best choice that will leave you with the most flexible sightseeing and fun seeking options. However, if you are planning to limit your stay to the Waikiki & Honolulu area, and/or you are willing to creatively use other available means of transportation, then you probably will not need to rent a car.</P> <P>If that is the case, we feel the following plan is a good one; First, arrange to have the hotel's courtesy van pick you up at the airport if this is an option and if not, then take a cab. Although the one way taxi fare is comparable to a one day economy car rental, this will save you time, navigation, parking, and gas expense. Once you get to your Waikiki hotel, you'll find you can walk, bus, or cab it to most anywhere cheaply - with a minimum of fuss.</P> <P>Next, if you decide to do some independent sightseeing, then you can rent a car through the hotel or one of the downtown car rental agencies. This will allow you to have the car for only the days you will need it - and therefore avoid paying car rental fees while you are parked on the beach and the car is parked in the garage.</P> <P>Another fun alternative is to ride the both the Waikiki and Aloha Tower Place trolleys. The Wikiki Trolley arranges city tours with a drop off and pick-up option at each point of interest and a day pass is quite resonable. The Aloha Tower Trolley charges $1 each way and is a safe way to return home after a few "cleansing ales" or "power shopping" at Aloha Tower.</P> <P>As we mentioned before, <a href="http://www.thebus.org/">The Bus</a> is a viable option on Oahu - and particuarly in Waikiki & Honolulu area. The schedules are regular and they do allow transfers that will get you close to almost anywhere you want to go. In addition, almost all activities will pick you up and bring you back, so this is another way of avoiding the need for a car in the Honolulu / Waikiki area - be sure to ask the company if they offer courtesy transportation when you book your activity.<P> <A NAME="maui"></A><CENTER><img src="rainbow.gif" border=0 height=3 width =100% align=center ></CENTER> <CENTER><P><font size=5>Getting Around on Maui</font></P></CENTER> <P>Rental Cars are by far your best option on Maui. The visitor attractions are spread out all over the Island and there is no reliable bus service. Taxi's are good for only short hops and can be extremely expensive to use for sightseeing. Then again, if money is no object, you can always rent a Limo. For the average traveler however, rental car is the way to go. Make sure you reserve your car early however, no matter what time of the year you plan to visit. You never know when the island will be "full" because of a convention, Hawaiian holiday or any other of a variety of happenings that could deplete the rental car pool when you least expect it.</P> <P>Mopeds can be fun for a day trek provided you are traveling only short distances on the dry (leeward/western) side and you use due caution when negotiating traffic. They are best for local trips around Kihei or perhaps between Kalapana and Lahaina. They are not recommended, however for the road to Hana, traveling upcountry, or transiting from North to South such as Kihei to Lahaina - rain, wind, and traffic can wear you out on a moped.</P> <P>Motocycles can be fun on Maui provided you are an experienced rider and the weather is dry. Be aware that places on Maui can be extremely windy (best windsurfing in the world) and traffic is also a safety consideration in many places.</P> <CENTER><A NAME="bigis"></A><img src="rainbow.gif" border=0 height=3 width =100% align=center ></CENTER> <CENTER><P><font size=5>Getting Around on The Big Island</font></P></CENTER> <P>When considering transportation on the Big Island remember the Island is BIG! Over 4000 sq miles and twice as large as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined. It can take 6 to 8 hours to drive around it non stop, and if you stop to sightsee you are in for a long day. An even more important consideration is that the visitor attractions are quite spread out. For instance the volcano is 2� hours from Kona in one direction as Hilo is 2� hours away in the other direction. This open space and the attractions along the way contribute much to the Big Island's charm - due to the fact that you will never feel crowded when visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. </P> <P>Unquestionably, the only real way to see the Big Island is by either rental car or with an organized tour company. Unless you are planning to stay near your hotel or condo for the duration of your stay, you WILL need a car to truly experience the Big Island of Hawaii. Make sure you reserve your car early however, no matter what time of the year you plan to visit. You never know when the island will be "full" because of a convention, Hawaiian holiday or any other events that could deplete the rental car pool when you least expect it.</P> <P>As always, there ARE exceptions to the rule. If you are staying in the Kailua-Kona area, you may get around by courtesy trans, taxi, or even moped, provided your limit of range centers along Alii Drive, the road that connects Kailua-Kona with Keauhou Bay. If you are staying in the Kohala / Waikaloa Resort area, you can make use of courtesy vans provided by the hotels and activities companies. </P> <P>Just keep in mind that if you have your heart set on exploring the Volcano, Akaka Falls, Waipio Valley, Hawi, South Point, just to name a few... you'll be much happier with a rental car - unless you prefer to participate in an organized "circle island tour".</P> <CENTER><A NAME="kauai"></A><img src="rainbow.gif" border=0 height=3 width =100% align=center ></CENTER> <CENTER><P><font size=5>Getting Around on Kauai</font></P></CENTER> <P>Rental car is the best option for Kauai. Remember, they call it the "Garden Isle" and there is usually enough precipitation during the normal visit to remind you why the vegetation is so lush, green, and abundant. You'll want to explore this green-wonderland and the best way is by rental car. Make sure you reserve your car early! Regardless of the time of the year you plan to visit, the island could be "full" because of a convention, Hawaiian holiday or any other event that could deplete the rental car pool when you least expect it.</P> Bus service does not exist and taxi service can be expensive for sightseeing. Mopeds or bikes can be an practical alternative for day excursions around the areas of Koloa and Poipu, where the weather tends to be dryer and the terrain relatively flat. Taxi cabs are possible and they are readily available at the airport. Otherwise, we don't feel that taxis are a good choice for transportation on the Garden Isle. <center><BR><TABLE WIDTH=100%> <TR><TD ALIGN=LEFT VALIGN=BOTTOM> <FONT SIZE=2><A HREF="#MenuTop"><IMG SRC="upbutn.gif" BORDER=0 HSPACE=7 VSPACE=7 WIDTH=25 HEIGHT=24 ALIGN=ABSMIDDLE></a><A HREF="#MenuTop">Top of Menu</A></FONT> </TD></table></center><BR> <CENTER><IMG SRC="rainbow.gif" width =100%> <p><FONT SIZE=-1> <A HREF="#load">[BEGINNING]</A> . <A HREF="#general">[GENERAL INFO]</A> . <A HREF="#oahu">[OAHU]</A> . <A HREF="#maui">[MAUI]</A> . <A HREF="#bigis">[BIG ISLAND]</A> . <A HREF="#kaui">[KAUAI]</A> . <A HREF="#molokai">[MOLOKAI]</A> . <A HREF="#lanai">[LANAI]</A><br><A HREF="tranlink.htm#RCars">[RENTAL CARS]</A> . <A HREF="tranlink.htm#ECars">[EXOTIC CARS]</A> . <A HREF="tranlink.htm#Limo">[LIMO]. <HR> <CENTER><a href="http://hawaiitravelnews.com" target="_new"><img src="http://hawaiitravelnews.com/banners/boh/htn_468x60.gif"> </body>