waikiki,trolley,routes,tickes,schedule,tips
The Waikiki Trolley is a fun and convenient way to explore Honolulu, eliminating the need to rent a car. If you want to explore the entire island of Oahu, combining the Waikiki Trolley with a short-term car rental can be a convenient and cost-effective option.
It’s easy to take TheBus from Honolulu International Airport to Waikiki with several routes to choose from, and then embark on your explorations of the city by trolley.
The trolley can bring you to all the key tourist spots around Waikiki and the wider Honolulu area like Iolani Palace, Diamond Head, All Moana Center, points along the coast, and more. It includes a hop-on, hop-off feature, allowing you to get off at attractions that interest you most and rejoin the trolley later.
Many locals and visitors in Waikiki frequently use the trolley, including guests at First Cabin International.
This guide provides visitors with an in-depth understanding of the routes, lines, schedule, cost, and hours for exploring Honolulu via the Waikiki Trolley.
Waikiki Trolley Routes and Lines
The trolley operates multiple routes, catering to visitors and locals alike. Whether you want to travel to a top shopping or dining area, discover an iconic landmark, or take in the most spectacular views, you’ll find a line that will get you there, including these.
Pink Line: The Ultimate Shopping & Dining Route
The Pink Line is ideal for those who want to dig into the most mouthwatering cuisine and indulge their shopping habit, with many unique treasures to uncover.
There are also some popular sightseeing spots, including Iolani Palace, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, and the State Capitol.
Highlights for shoppers include Ala Moana Center, a shopper’s paradise with independent, local boutiques and luxury brands. You can also reach the Waikiki Shopping Plaza, a hub for retail and dining venues.
Blue Line: Scenic Natural Wonders & Top Attractions
The Blue Line is often referred to as the Coastline & Local Grinds Line. It travels through Waikiki, to Kahala, and Kapiolani Park. While it doesn’t stop at the Diamond Head trailhead (that’s the Green Line), you will enjoy an awe-inspiring view of Diamond Head, one of Hawaii’s famous symbols.
You’ll also traverse the Kalanianaole Highway, showcasing breathtaking oceanscapes and rugged cliffs. There are also photo stops at the Halona Blowhole Lookout and From Here to Eternity.
In addition to the scenery, you can take the Blue Line to visit the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Koko Marina Center, and the Sea Life Park.
Green Line: Hidden Gems & Diamond Head Crater
The best way to get to Diamond Head Crater for an epic hike is to take the Green Line. But it also offers the chance to discover some of Honolulu’s hidden gems.
That includes the KCC Farmers’ Market held near Diamond Head every Saturday from 7:30 to 11 a.m. It offers a wide range of local products, delicious treats made by the local community, and plenty of fresh produce.
For foodies seeking unique local experiences, there are plenty of hidden treasures as well. You’ll be able to explore some of the best local eats at places where residents go.
You might try the Unicorn Butt Sneeze at Purvé Donut Shop, a donut with a lemon glaze “butt sneezed with Fruity Pebbles,” Noods Ramen Bar for some of the best Ramen around, or the creative vegan dishes at Juicy Brew.
Red Line: Cultural Exploration at Its Best
The Red Line is a must-ride for culture vultures stopping at some of the top cultural attractions like the Honolulu Museum of Art.
There are also stops at Iolani Palace and the State Capitol, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (a cemetery at the Punchbowl Crater), Chinatown, the Hawaii Theatre, the Aloha Tower and Honolulu Harbor.
Trolley Charters: A Personalized Ride
Waikiki Trolley also offers personalized rides for an island adventure of your choosing.
You’ll have your own local guide for tours complete with expert insight for discovering the island highlights. It’s all tailored to the personal preferences of you and your group.
These adventures can be enjoyed on a double-decker trolley, an open-air trolley, or a deluxe mini-bus.
How Much Does the Waikiki Trolley Cost?
The cost of your trolley ticket will vary depending on several factors. The Hop-on, Hop-Off Trolley tickets are available as single line, single day, or multi-day passes good for all lines.
The fare also varies by line, starting at $6 for a single line pass on the Pink Line for both adults and children. Others provide a discount for kids three through 11, while those under three can ride for free.
Unfortunately, there is no senior discount, but if you’ll be in the area for more than four days, you’ll save if you purchase the full week pass which will cover rides on all the lines for seven days.
Schedule and Operating Hours
The Waikiki Trolley schedule and operating hours vary by line. You can get the full schedule for 2025 by visiting waikikitrolley.com.
- Pink Line: 10 a.m. (first pickup) to 7:15 p.m. (last pickup)
- Blue Line: 8:30 a.m. to 1:50 p.m.
- Green Line: 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Red Line: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Maximize Your Waikiki Adventure with the Right Transportation
As noted earlier, many visitors who have used the Waikiki Trolley highly recommend it.
While renting a car is ideal for exploring areas outside of Waikiki, the trolley provides a hassle-free way to get around within the city. Parking garages in Waikiki can be busy, so it’s helpful to check availability in advance when renting a car.
Many hotels in Waikiki including FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII are within walking distance of shops, restaurants, beaches, and various attractions. For places little farther away, visitors can conveniently use the trolley or a rental car depending on their itinerary.
For fun, convenience, and lots of entertaining insight, using the trolley is truly the best way to explore Waikiki!
Ready to explore the beauty of Waikiki without the stress of traffic or parking? Our ultimate guide to TheBus in Waikik[…]
Waikiki is a must-visit destination on the island of Oahu, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and bustling atm[…]
So, you’ve finally made it to Hawaii, but don’t know where to go from there? Look no further than the world-famous Waiki[…]
