Travel Tip - Ground Transportation From HNL Airport

I was just explaining to my Auntie on the mainland that unlike most cities, Honolulu hotels do not offer complementary shuttle services to and from the airport. So what's a weary traveler to do? Three options are available: Catch a cab, take the Waikiki Shuttle, or have someone pick you up. Here's the inside scoop:

Waikiki Hotel Shuttle
Honolulu has implemented a Waikiki-wide Airport Shuttle Service (read monopoly). From the airport look for youngsters in yellow shirts who will direct you to the shuttle pick up just outside the baggage claim. Each passenger pays $9 (plus $2 per extra luggage) and hops on to the "Roberts Hawaii" bus. The shuttle will stop at each hotel in Waikiki. Listen carefully for the announcement of your hotel and get off. To return from the hotel to the airport, you'll need to call 24 hours in advance for a hotel pick up reservation.Taxi Cabs
I've been told that a short ride to a nearby Waikiki Hotel will run you at least $20. Hotels further east can run up to $40, depending on traffic and the time of day.
Call: City Taxi at (808) 524-2121

Personal Pick Up - Cell Phone Waiting Lot
For those picking up guests from HNL, there is a new designated "Cell Phone Waiting-Lot" just a minute outside the airport, just near the Nimitz Highway on ramp. The "Waiting Lot" is conveniently located and provides easy access to return to the airport. Another favorite spot of mine is to wait at the Starbucks, Jamba Juice or L&L on the street kitty corner to the "Waiting Lot." These stores provide free parking and serve food in air-conditioned spaces with comfortable chairs.

Cell Phone Lot:

• Exit freeway to Nimitz Highway (under viaduct)
• Make a U-turn at Aolele Street
• Entrance to Cell Phone Waiting Area will be on your right (Service Road A)

Open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Click here for a map.
To Queens Medical Center
For inter-island patients, there is a free shuttle service to and from QMC. You must call 45 minutes ahead of time to reserve a pick up and drop off at the airport.
Call: QMC Van Service at 808.547.4762 (Operates M-F, 7:30am to 6:00pm)