Open Travel Guide
Transportation in Hawaii

Getting Around Hawaii 2026

Transport in Hawaii decoded — what to use for which journey, and what each option costs.

Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.

Transportation details

Full breakdown of how to get around.

Getting around Hawaii requires inter-island flights between the main islands, as there are no bridges or ferries connecting them (with the exception of a ferry between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai). Within each island, a rental car is the most practical option except on Oahu, which has an extensive public bus system.

Airports

HNL

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

OGG

Kahului Airport

KOA

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport

LIH

Lihue Airport

ITO

Hilo International Airport

JHM

Kapalua Airport

Transport tips

Travel smarter, not harder.

Tip

Buy multi-day or weekly transit passes if you'll use public transport more than twice a day.

Tip

Keep small change handy for buses and shorter trips where contactless may not work.

Tip

Avoid rush hour (typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) for a more comfortable journey.