Best Airports For Your Trip To Oahu

Honolulu International Airport (HNL), also known as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, is the main airport for those travelling to the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It is located just 5 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 10 miles northwest of Waikiki Beach. The airport is praised for its convenience, easy access to the city, and friendly staff.

Honolulu International Airport (HNL)

The airport is named after Honolulu native and Medal of Honor recipient Daniel Inouye, who represented Hawaii in the United States Senate from 1963 until his death in 2012. The airport is conveniently located just a short drive from Waikiki city centre, making it easily accessible for visitors and locals alike.

Honolulu International Airport is Hawaii's major airport, serving as the entry point for most visitors to the state. It offers nonstop flights to many destinations in North America, Asia, and Oceania, with clear and easy-to-follow signage in English and Japanese. The airport has three terminals, with Terminal 2 being the largest and the only one capable of handling international arrivals and departures. A free shuttle service, the Wiki Wiki Shuttle, connects the ticket lobbies of all three terminals and operates between the concourses of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 post-security.

There are several transportation options available from the airport to Waikiki, including shared-ride shuttles, exclusive airport shuttles, luxury shuttle services, taxis, and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft. Car rental facilities are also available at the airport, with companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis offering competitive rates.

Waikiki Trolley

Honolulu International Airport (HNL), also known as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (PHNL), is the main airport on the island of Oahu. It is located just 5 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 9-10 miles from Waikiki.

The Waikiki Trolley is a great way to explore the island of Oahu and discover Honolulu and Waikiki. It offers an affordable and convenient way to get around, with four distinct hop-on hop-off routes covering popular sites in the area. The trolley is also a fun way to experience the island, with open-air rides and entertaining drivers.

The Blue Line travels along the coast of Waikiki, stopping at famous landmarks such as the Halona Blowhole and Sea Life Park. The Green Line takes a direct trip to the popular Diamond Head Crater. The Red Line is perfect for those interested in the history of the area, with stops at I'olani Palace and the King Kamehameha Statue. Finally, the Pink Line is a shopping route, stopping at the top visitor shopping locations, including Ala Moana Center and Hilton Hawaiian Village.

The Waikiki Trolley offers day passes, as well as multi-day passes for greater savings. Tickets can be purchased online or from a kiosk, and the trolley can be picked up anywhere along its route. The price is at least $25 for a one-day pass, with discounts available for multiple days. It's important to note that the Waikiki Trolley does not accept credit cards, only cash.

The Waikiki Trolley also offers a Pearl Harbor tour through E Noa Tours, which includes admission to the memorial and the Battleship Missouri.

Car rental

Honolulu International Airport (HNL), also known as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, is the main airport for those travelling to Oahu. It is located just 5 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 10 miles northwest of Waikiki Beach.

When renting a car at Honolulu International Airport, you can choose between companies with on- or off-terminal locations. The on-airport companies are typically larger chains and tend to be pricier, whereas the off-airport companies are smaller and more budget-friendly. It is important to note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your journey accordingly.

If you are renting a car, you must be 25 years of age or older. However, some car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget, allow drivers above the age of 18 to rent a car under certain conditions.

When returning your rental car, ensure that you adhere to the fuel policy per the rental contract. Take the I-H-1 W from Punchbowl Street, head to the airport exit, and use the left two lanes to enter Rodgers Boulevard. Follow the Rental Car Return signs and head to the specific company parking lot, where an attendant will help you complete the return process.

It is recommended that you avoid morning and evening rush hour traffic when picking up or dropping off your rental car. Peak travel times are typically around 5-8 am and 3-6:30 pm.

When renting a car, you can choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs, such as a passenger van, a convertible, or an SUV. It is also beneficial to book online for the best rates and to have a major credit card for the deposit. Additionally, be sure to read the rental company's policies on additional drivers, insurance, and payment methods.

Airport signage

The main airport in Oahu is the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)/PHNL, also known as Honolulu International Airport. It is located in Honolulu on the island of O'ahu and is the largest airport in Hawaii. The airport is owned and operated by the State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation, Airports Division.

When it comes to navigating through the airport, there is clear signage in English and Japanese to guide you. These signs will direct you to essential services such as baggage claim and ground transportation. The airport has a smooth and efficient signage system that makes it easy for travellers to find their way around.

The airport also offers a range of transportation options, including ride-hailing services, car rentals, and shuttle buses to popular areas. Car rental counters can be found in the arrivals area, with several major companies offering competitive rates. For those who prefer a more flexible option, renting a car is a great choice, although it is important to note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

In addition to the signage and transportation options, the airport also provides additional services for travellers, such as the USO Honolulu Airport Center located on the ground floor of Terminal 2. A free shuttle service is also available to nearby hotels for those seeking a comfortable stay near the airport. With its clear signage, convenient location, and range of services, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport offers a stress-free and smooth experience for travellers visiting Oahu.

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

The main airport on the island of Oahu is the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), also known as Honolulu International Airport. It is located in Honolulu, 5 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 10 miles northwest of Waikiki Beach. The airport is named after Honolulu native and Medal of Honor recipient Daniel Inouye, who served as a senator for Hawaii from 1963 until his death in 2012. Covering 4,220 acres, which is more than 1% of Oahu's land, it is the largest airport in Hawaii.

The airport has four major runways, including the world's first major runway constructed entirely offshore, known as the Reef Runway. In addition, there are two designated offshore waterways for seaplanes. The airport has 60 gates across three terminals. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are connected post-security, but passengers must pass through a USDA agricultural inspection station when walking with carry-on luggage. The airport offers nonstop flights to many destinations in North America, Asia, and Oceania, and it serves as the main hub for Hawaiian Airlines and a base for Aloha Air Cargo.

The airport has implemented various innovations, such as the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) system, which allows eligible travellers to expedite their entry into the United States using a mobile application. Additionally, the airport provides a Wiki Wiki Shuttle, a free shuttle bus service between the ticket lobbies and concourses of all three terminals.

Frequently asked questions