Do you need a rental car on Oahu?

You don’t necessarily need a rental car on Oahu, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki.

The bus system, called TheBus, is reliable and cheap, and rideshares are easy to get. Many tours include pickup, and the Waikiki Trolley covers popular attractions.

But if you want to explore beyond Honolulu at your own pace — like driving the North Shore or visiting Kailua, a rental car is a smart choice.

For most first-time visitors, a hybrid approach works best: go car-free your first few days in Waikiki, then rent one for a day or two to roam. Parking at Waikiki hotels can be pricey, so factor that in when you budget.

👉 For more on getting around Oahu check out how long it takes to drive around Oahu, and use our Hawaii trip calculator to budget for your rental car cost.