Exploring: Kailua

TheBus Overview

TheBus is Oahu's comprehensive public bus system. It serves Kailua and connects to most parts of the island. It offers a cost-effective way to travel, though journeys can be long due to frequent stops. Kailua does not have its own metro or tram system; TheBus is the main public transit option.

The system is comprehensive, offering extensive coverage across Oahu. While slower than driving, especially during peak hours, it is a very budget-friendly way to explore. Buses are wheelchair accessible.

Kailua Routes

Route 67 (Kailua/Waimanalo): Connects Kailua directly with Honolulu, specifically Ala Moana Center and Downtown, via the scenic Pali Highway.
Route 66 (Kailua/Kaneohe): Connects Kailua to Kaneohe and provides connections to other parts of the windward side.
Route 70 (Kailua Shuttle): This is a local circulator route operating within Kailua town and to nearby beaches, making it convenient for exploring the immediate area without a car.
Main Hubs: The main transfer point in Honolulu is Ala Moana Center. In Kailua, the Kailua Town Center area serves as a major bus stop.

Use DaBus2 App

The application provides real-time bus tracking and schedule information, helping you avoid long waits at stops.

Plan Ahead

Check schedules before you leave, especially for less frequent routes or if you plan to travel late at night.

Signal the Driver

Wave to indicate you wish the bus to stop at your designated stop. This is a common practice on Oahu.

Efficiency Tips

Optimize Your Ride

Allow Extra Time: Bus travel can be slower than driving, especially during rush hour or when making transfers. Build in buffer time.
Connections: Utilize major transfer points like Ala Moana Center in Honolulu for smoother transitions between routes.
Route Maps: Consult detailed route maps on TheBus official website (TheBus.org) for planning.

Fares & Cards

HOLO Card Benefits: This reloadable smart card automatically caps fares at the daily ($7.50), monthly, or annual rate, preventing overpayment.
Cash Payments: A single ride costs $3.00. You need exact change; bus drivers do not give change.
Discounts: Senior, youth, and disability discounts are available with proper identification and specific HOLO cards.

Fare Structure Summary

Single Ride

$3.00 (exact cash)

Day Pass HOLO Card

$7.50

Youth/Senior/Disability

Discounted HOLO rates

Payment Options

Cash or HOLO Card

On-Demand Transport

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, on-demand transportation.

Taxi Info

Identification: Taxis on Oahu are typically white or yellow. They display "Taxi" signs and company names. All licensed taxis are metered.
Hailing: Less common in Kailua than Honolulu. It is best to call a taxi company, like TheCab, or use a ride-sharing app.
Fares: Metered, with a base fare plus a per-mile rate. Expect to pay approximately $60-$80 or more for a ride from HNL to Kailua.
Payment: Most taxis accept both cash and credit cards. Confirm credit card acceptance with the driver before starting your ride.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular on Oahu, including Kailua. You can request rides through their respective apps.
Availability: Services are generally good in Kailua, especially around the town center and popular tourist areas. Wait times might be slightly longer than in Honolulu, notably during off-peak hours.
Safety: Before entering the vehicle, confirm that the driver and car details (make, model, license plate) match the information provided in the app.
Airport Arrangements: Designated taxi queues and ride-share pick-up zones are clearly marked at HNL. Follow airport signage upon arrival.

Booking & Safety

Car Rental: All major companies operate at HNL. Book well in advance for better rates and vehicle choice. Drivers need valid license (IDP if not English), usually 21+, credit card.
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: From specialty shops in Honolulu. Requires valid motorcycle endorsement.
Bicycle Rentals: Several shops in Kailua offer rentals (Bikeadelic Hawaii, The Bike Shop). Biking popular due to flat terrain.

Accessibility Services: TheBus is fully accessible. Request wheelchair-accessible taxis/ride-shares. Many public beaches have accessible facilities, beach access mats, or beach wheelchairs.
Driving Laws: Standard U.S. Laws. Seatbelts mandatory. Cell phone use prohibited unless hands-free. Drive on right side.
Parking: Limited free parking at popular beaches/trailheads. Fill up quickly. Metered parking in commercial areas. Respect private property signs.

Land Transportation Details

Train Services

Oahu has no inter-city train services. The Honolulu Rail Transit (Skyline) is a limited urban system, not extending to Kailua.

Long-Distance Bus

TheBus serves as the main "long-distance" land transport between towns. It connects Kailua to Honolulu and other parts of Oahu. Comprehensive but travel can be slow.

Sea/River Arrivals

No ferry services connect Oahu to other Hawaiian islands. Cruise ships dock at Pier 2 in Honolulu Harbor. No significant river transportation for tourists.

Walking & Cycling

Kailua's flat terrain and scenic areas make walking and cycling enjoyable. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks connecting shops, restaurants, and services.

Walking Routes

Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach areas are very walkable, with paths and sidewalks for pleasant strolls.
The Kaʻelepulu Canal path offers a pleasant and flat walking route, extending from Kawainui Marsh towards the bay.
No formal guided walking tours for Kailua, but easy self-guided walks with a map or navigation app.
Avoid walking on major highways without sidewalks or designated bike lanes, as they can be dangerous.

Cycling Safety & Info

Kailua has some designated bike lanes and shared-use paths, making cycling a safe way to get around.
Always wear a Helmet when cycling. Be aware of traffic, especially on main roads, and follow all traffic laws.
Several shops in Kailua offer bicycle rentals, like Bikeadelic Hawaii and The Bike Shop. Daily rental rates typically range from $25-$50.
No-Go Areas: Avoid cycling on major highways (Pali Highway, Kalanianaole Highway) where traffic is high-speed and no safe lanes exist.

Why Cycle in Kailua?

Terrain & Distance

The town is flat, making cycling easy and enjoyable for all skill levels. Distances between the town center, Kailua Beach, and Lanikai Beach are manageable by bike.

Scenic and Active Way to Explore

Bike Rentals

Several local shops offer bicycle rentals, including e-bikes for longer rides. Rental rates are typically affordable for a full day of exploration.

Convenient and Accessible

Health Benefits

Eco-Friendly Transportation

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Buses: Several companies offer island-wide tours that may include a stop in Kailua, but these typically depart from Honolulu. Hop-on-hop-off services are mainly limited to Honolulu and Waikiki.
Boat Taxis & Water Transportation: No regular boat taxi services operate in Kailua Bay. Water transport is mainly for organized tours, like guided kayaking trips to the Mokulua Islands, or for private vessels.
Cable Cars/Funiculars: Kailua does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique public transport systems.

Accessibility Services

TheBus is fully accessible for wheelchair users.
Wheelchair-accessible taxis or ride-shares can be requested through their respective services.
Many public beaches, including Kailua Beach Park, have accessible facilities and sometimes offer beach access mats.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Avoid walking or cycling on major highways, like Pali Highway (HI-61) or Kalanianaole Highway (HI-72).
These roads typically have no sidewalks or designated bike lanes, making them dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists due to high-speed traffic.
Always prioritize your safety and choose designated pedestrian and cycling paths.
Respect private property signs and avoid trespassing, especially on private beach access points.

Some hiking trails may have closure warnings due to weather or hazardous conditions; observe all signage.
Always check ocean conditions and heed lifeguard warnings before entering the water. Strong currents can be present.
Be mindful of weather changes, as sudden heavy rain can cause slippery conditions on trails or roads.
For any activities, carry appropriate safety gear and inform someone of your plans.

Cycling Recommendation

Renting a bicycle is an excellent way to experience Kailua. The town is flat, and the distances between the town center, Kailua Beach, and Lanikai Beach are manageable, offering a scenic and active way to get around.

It allows for a more intimate connection with the local environment and provides flexibility to stop at various points of interest along the way.

Exploring Kailua