Ride TheBus in Oahu, Hawaii

One of the most important tips for tourists in Plan a Cheap and Fun Time As a Tourist in Oahu, Hawaii, 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.
  3. Double check when specific bus routes stop for the day. 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.
  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. 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.

Tips

  • In early 2007, one of the city ordinances for TheBus has changed. Cell phones are to remain on silent mode and not to be used on the bus. If a person is caught, they will be reminded by the driver and there is a possible consequence of getting dropped off at the next stop on the route if rules are ignored. However, many drivers don't mind cell phone chatting.
  • If you're unsure about your whereabouts, ask the driver before boarding the bus. There are many buses that drive in the general area that you wish to go, but not anywhere close to your actual destination. However, most drivers are accurate on what specific routes you can take instead.
  • If you are lost, ask. When it comes to directions, many people are willing to help. Just be aware of the local pidgin talk that may be brought out.
  • A major transfer point on the Leeward side is the Kalihi Transit Center. A major transfer point in Honolulu is Enjoy a Day at Ala Moana Center. The two major transfer points on the Windward side are the Windward Mall/Kaneohe Bay Shopping Center area and the Hamakua/Kailua Road intersection.

Warnings

  • If you do not have enough money, do not try to sneak on.

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Sources and Citations