How to Ride TheBus in Oahu, Hawaii

Last Updated: March 4, 2021 References

One of the most important tips for tourists in Oahu, Hawaii is transportation methods. There are rental cars, using TheCab, TheBus, or jumping on a Waikiki Trolley. After reading this article, you may have more understanding about Hawaii's bus system.

Steps

1
Research on TheBus.org. This is your online bible & guide to TheBus. It has links to various updates, such as detours, bus schedules, bus routes, where you can purchase different passes, and other important information.
2
Be sure to have enough money to board. For one way, it is free for infants to child under 5, $1.00 for senior citizens, $1.25 for 5 to 17 year olds, and $2.50 for adults who are 18 and older. Always ask for a transfer when paying. They can only be used once & can be used either on a continuous route or a round trip, if time is allowed.^{[1]
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3
Double check when specific bus routes stop for the day.^{[2]
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Research source} This is different from the Continental United States, where some cities have non-stop services. On Oahu, some services end early as 8 to 9 pm; express buses end around sunset. Services begin at 2 am for the airport bus (which travels through Waikiki) and between 5 to 8 am for all other buses. In addition, some buses, for example the Windward ones, come every 1 to 1 1/2 hours after 6 pm.^{[3]
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4
Be sure that any items that you carry on-board are stored properly, either on laps or under seats. Bus drivers may have to stop and wait for a person to be cleared.^{[4]
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Research source} Foam surfboards and boards are allowed, but needs to be stored with the person.
5
Pull the notification wire to alert the driver to stop at the next bus sign. Many buses have advanced voice technology that was installed, whereas it informs riders what major stop, intersection, or area is coming up next. Some buses will additionally have neon signs above the driver that updates along with the automated voice.^{[5]
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Community Q&A

Question

Do I have to pay again to change bus routes?

Community Answer

When you pay for the fare, you can ask the driver for a transfer. You'll get a slip of paper with a bunch of different times on it, and you can show that to your next driver and the ride will be free, as long as it is within the time frame indicated on the slip.
Question

Are overseas senior citizens allowed the same privileges when traveling on the bus?

Community Answer

If you're talking about being able to sit in the front of the bus, yes, that privilege applies to any senior citizen. However if you're talking about bus ticket discounts, in some states you need to be a resident and sign up to be eligible.
Question

Can a passenger take a carry-on size suitcase on the bus?

Community Answer

Yes, you should be able to.
Question

At what age does the senior discount come into effect?

Community Answer

You can check with the specific company, as it varies from company to company.