Bus system?

Question

Hi. We have decided to stay at the Outrigger Paradise on the corner of Kuhio Ave. Will the bus get us to Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head for hiking? We’re trying to figure out which days we will need a car and which we don’t. Is there an easy to navigate website for the bus system?

Answer

Staying at the Outrigger Paradise on Kuhio Avenue puts you right in the heart of Waikīkī, which is well-served by TheBus, Oahu’s public bus system. Many visitors rely on it for getting around the island without renting a car, though the convenience depends on your destinations and schedule.

Getting to Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is in the southwest part of Oahu, roughly 15–20 miles from Waikīkī. You can take TheBus, but expect a 1.5–2 hour ride each way with at least one transfer. Bus routes like the #20 or #42 can get you there, depending on your starting point and time of day. It’s doable but not fast, so many visitors prefer a rental car, taxi, or rideshare for Pearl Harbor to save time, especially if you have a timed tour.

Getting to Diamond Head for hiking: Diamond Head is very close to Waikīkī, just about 2 miles southeast. You can take TheBus #23, which stops near the Diamond Head trailhead. The bus ride is short (about 10–15 minutes) and very convenient if you don’t mind walking a few minutes from the bus stop to the trail entrance.

Using TheBus and planning your travel:

Website: The main website is easy to navigate: [www.thebus.org](https://www.thebus.org). You can look up routes, schedules, and fare information, as well as download the official app or Google Maps will provide accurate bus directions and times in real-time.
Fares: As of now, a single ride is $3, and day passes are available for $7.50, which is convenient if you plan multiple trips in a day.
Planning tips: Use Google Maps or the official app to plan each route; pay attention to the last buses of the day for longer routes, especially to Pearl Harbor.

When a car is more convenient:

If you’re going to Pearl Harbor, the drive is much faster and gives you flexibility with timing.
For long day trips to the North Shore, Hanauma Bay, or the Windward side, a car saves time.
Diamond Head, Ala Moana Shopping Center, Waikīkī sightseeing — easy by bus or even walking — don’t require a car.

Summary advice:

For your stay in Waikīkī, you could rely on TheBus for Diamond Head and most local sightseeing. Renting a car is optional if you want to visit Pearl Harbor, North Shore, or other parts of the island with tight schedules or flexibility for day trips. Many visitors do a hybrid approach: use TheBus for nearby excursions and rent a car for 1–2 days for longer trips.