Hawaii's Bus Service: Reliable Transport For Commuters?

TheBus is the public bus transportation service on the island of Oʻahu, Hawai'i. It is a popular way to get around the island, with over 72 million riders per year. TheBus is considered reliable and affordable, allowing riders to get to places in a reasonable amount of time and at a low cost. However, there are some drawbacks, such as infrequent buses in remote locations and during weekends and holidays. Additionally, TheBus has been criticised for declining ridership and not being as efficient as driving. Overall, while TheBus is a convenient option for some, it may not be the best choice for those with more specific transportation needs or those who value efficiency and speed.

Bus schedules and frequency

The bus schedules and frequencies in Hawaii vary depending on the day of the week and the specific route. Most Oahu buses arrive at stops every 10 to 30 minutes. However, on Sundays, holidays, and in less-travelled areas, buses may only pass by once an hour.

The bus service operates on different schedules for different days of the week: a Monday to Friday schedule (regular frequency), a Saturday schedule (less frequent), and a Sunday/Holiday schedule (even less frequent).

For example, Route 2, 2L, and 23 (Eastbound) to Diamond Head State Monument and Kapiolani Community College (KCC) take approximately 25-35 minutes from various stops in Waikiki. Route 2, 2L (Westbound) to Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum, and Honolulu Museum of Art takes about 20 minutes to the Honolulu Museum of Art, 25 minutes to Iolani Palace, and 40 minutes to Bishop Museum from bus stops in Waikiki. This route runs most days between 5:30 am and 12:30 pm.

Another example is Route 40, which goes from Ala Moana Mall to Makaha Beach. This route runs most days all day and night, and the journey can take up to 2 hours each way.

It is recommended to check the schedule or ask the bus driver, especially if you plan on staying out late, as the last bus on some routes may be as early as 7:30 pm.

In terms of frequency, as of July 2023, TheBus operates service on 117 routes, including three express routes and two limited-stop routes. In June 2024, the number of routes was 115, including three rapid transit routes and two limited express routes. TheBus had a ridership of 41,661,900 in 2023, or about 128,600 per weekday.

Bus stops and their facilities

Bus stops in Hawaii are located across the island, with a majority of routes travelling through Waikiki, Ala Moana Mall, and downtown Honolulu. Bus stops are also located at the airport, on the second level roadway along the centre median.

The bus service in Hawaii is called 'TheBus' and is ranked as one of the best transit systems in the world, with over 72 million riders per year. TheBus is a reliable and affordable way to get around the island, with buses arriving at stops every 10 to 30 minutes. However, it is important to note that buses may only pass once an hour on Sundays, holidays, and in less-travelled areas.

TheBus has various facilities to accommodate passengers, including bike racks on the front of the buses and space for carry-on luggage and accessories such as boogie boards, golf clubs, and small coolers. Small pets in cages are also allowed on board. For passengers with disabilities, TheHandi-Van is a paratransit service that provides shared rides and must be reserved in advance.

TheBus also offers a variety of fare options, including single fares, day passes, 7-day passes, monthly passes, and annual passes. Fares can be paid in exact change upon boarding or through the HOLO Card, a reloadable smart card that can be purchased online or at various retail locations in Oahu.

Overall, TheBus provides a comprehensive and accessible bus service with facilities that cater to the needs of its passengers, making it a convenient option for both locals and tourists in Hawaii.

Reliability and punctuality

TheBus is the public bus transportation service on the island of Oʻahu, Hawai'i, providing daily service on 115 routes (including three rapid transit routes and two limited express routes). It is considered one of the best transit systems in the world, with over 72 million satisfied Honolulu bus riders per year.

TheBus is generally considered a reliable and punctual service, with buses arriving at stops every 10 to 30 minutes. However, there are some factors that can affect punctuality. For example, during rush hour, buses can be jam-packed, and traffic congestion can cause delays. Additionally, TheBus serves a large homeless population in Honolulu, and the process of loading handicapped passengers can also slow down the service.

On weekends and holidays, buses are less frequent, with some routes operating on a reduced schedule or only passing by once an hour. It is recommended that riders aim to arrive at their destination 30-40 minutes early if they have an important appointment and need to use TheBus.

To improve punctuality and reliability, TheBus is considering various measures such as designating special bus lanes during certain hours and installing doors on the left side of buses for easier loading and unloading on one-way streets.

Overall, while TheBus is generally reliable and punctual, there are some factors that can cause delays, and it is always a good idea to allow for some extra time when using public transportation.

Affordability and payment methods

TheBus is a very affordable way to get around Oahu, with fares starting at $1 for seniors and people with disabilities, $1.25 for students, and $2.50 for adults. There is also a free option for children under 5 who are accompanied by a fare-paying adult. TheBus also offers various pass options to help riders save money, including a 4-day pass for visitors, a 7-day pass, a monthly pass, and an annual pass. The 4-day pass for visitors is available for $35 and can be purchased at the TheBus Pass Office or any ABC store in Waikiki. The 7-day pass costs $30, the monthly pass costs $80, and the annual pass costs $880. These passes can be purchased online or at various HOLO retail locations throughout Oahu.

Another convenient payment option is the HOLO Card, a reloadable smart card that can be tapped on the card reader when boarding the bus. The card itself costs $2 and can be purchased online or at designated retail locations. The HOLO Card is a great option for riders who want to avoid carrying cash and keep track of their spending. It also includes features such as a daily fare cap of $7.50 and unlimited transfers for 2.5 hours after tapping.

Overall, TheBus offers a range of affordable payment options to suit different rider needs, making it a cost-effective way to get around the island.

Safety and comfort

Safety Measures

TheBus prioritizes the safety of its passengers, as evidenced by the following measures:

• Security cameras installed in buses to deter criminal activity.
• Strict rules prohibiting smoking, eating, and drinking, and the consumption of alcoholic beverages on board.
• Refusal of service to intoxicated passengers.
• Clear guidelines for the storage of baggage and personal items to ensure unobstructed aisles and passenger comfort.
• Enforcement of the use of headphones for electronic devices and restrictions on loud conversations to maintain a peaceful environment.
• Prohibition of hazardous materials, weapons, and large objects that cannot be safely stored.
• Rules against unruly behavior, including fighting, using offensive language, or disturbing other passengers, with penalties for violators.
• Implementation of the HEA system, enabling passengers to track bus locations and providing estimated arrival times.

Comfort Features

In addition to safety, TheBus also focuses on enhancing the comfort of its passengers:

• Air-conditioned buses to provide a comfortable environment, especially during hot Hawaiian days.
• Announcements and displays of bus stop information, including ID numbers, to help passengers navigate their journeys.
• Friendly and helpful bus drivers who are willing to provide directions and ensure passengers get off at the correct stops.
• Senior and disabled courtesy seating at the front of the bus, honoring the needs of these passengers.
• Availability of monthly passes and discounted rates for seniors, making transportation more accessible and affordable.
• Collaboration with hotels to provide paper maps of bus routes, making trip planning easier for tourists.
• Introduction of the HOLO card, a convenient way to pay for rides and transfer between buses and the HART train.
• Implementation of programs geared towards college students who commute to school and work, making TheBus a viable option for this demographic.

TheBus in Hawaii strives to provide a safe and comfortable experience for its passengers through a range of measures, from safety regulations to comfort-enhancing features. These initiatives contribute to a positive and enjoyable travel experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Frequently asked questions