image: courtesy of Waikele Premium Outlets
Reference this list of the top shopping destinations near Honolulu International Airport and you’ll find SIMON Premium Outlets’ island gem in Waipahu in the Ewa District on Oahu. The popular outdoor outlet mall is located about 10 miles from HNL and takes anywhere from 15-25 minutes to get to depending on the time of day. While most visitors prefer to get settled into their accommodations and hit the outlet the next AM (etc.) some don’t want to waste a single second, and seek to begin the bargain shopping expedition within minutes of leaving baggage claim. In order to help you beat the other shoppers and score the best selection (at a discount!) we have laid out what you need to know about getting to the outlet swiftly from the airport, along with some other helpful tips.
Best Way to Get from Honolulu International Airport to Waikele Premium Outlets and What Else You Need to Know
Take a Private Flat Rate Shuttle
If you were already in Waikiki and walking down Kalakaua Avenue you would be bombarded with elderly locals (you’ll see) handing out flyers for shuttle discounts to the outlet. There are no shortage of options from town. But you’re not looking for a ride from one of Waikiki’s countless hotels. You’re leaving from the airport and while there are a few options, the only one you should consider is a private, direct, flat rate shuttle.
Again, given that you intend on heading straight from the airport to the outlet, time is of essence to you. That discounts the ride hailing (Uber/Lyft) option because the designated pickup zone is not located outside of baggage claim. That will cost you some precious minutes. Plus, if there are more people in your party and each of you has luggage you will need an UberXL to accommodate your passenger and baggage load. As you know, UberXL costs significantly more – $70 and up during prime shopping time! Being that you’re a savvy outlet shopper, you certainly have no intent of coughing up that kind of dough for a 10 mile drive. Traditional taxis aren’t worth considering either. For one, the island fleets are typically old and uncomfortable. But the worst part, is the fare. Here is a screenshot from today’s Taxi Fare Finder result:
Over $65 USD for a traditional taxi ride from HNL to Waikele Outlets? Yikes.
Instead, book a private, direct, and flat rate shuttle for your entire party (includes up to four passengers) for just $40. Our upscale Toyota Sienna minivans have plenty of comfy air conditioned room and if you like, you can even add a lei greeting for everyone in your group – a great way to start your shopping vacation!
Book Your $40 Flat Rate from HNL to Waikele Outlets
What to Do if You Arrival Early
This prime shopping destination is like most SIMON Premium Outlets – it’s somewhat isolated from the usual area attractions so you want to make sure you’re headed there close to opening, should you be arriving at HNL early in the AM. Otherwise, you won’t have a lot of options for killing time, aside from the on-site Starbucks which opens at 4:30 AM everyday with exception of Sunday which is open at 5AM. Waikele Premium Outlets hours of operation are as follows:
- Monday to Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM HST
- Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM HST
Please note that the mall boasts extended opening hours on Black Friday, in addition to the period between Thanksgiving weekend and Christmas Eve, in case you’re coming at the onset of the Holiday season. That said, they have reduced hours on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day. Call your preferred outlet shop/s to confirm their opening hours on specific holidays as they do indeed vary by store.
Other Waikele amenities and conveniences recent HNL arrivals may care about include:
- ATMs
- Currency exchange
- Printing center
- Food court
- Mobile device charging stations
- Strollers
- Complementary wheelchairs
At press, there are no lockers to store your luggage, but we hear there are plans to add this guest service in the near future. All in all, you’re pretty much set for amenities so you’re free to head straight to the outlet mall from the airport in your exclusive chariot.
Book Your $40 Flat Rate from HNL to Waikele Outlets
Ready to begin your Oahu vacation with a shopping trip to Waikele Premium Outlets? Just give us 24-hours notice and we’ll take care of you and your shopping party. View all flat rates, and call us at 1.800.929.1219 or complete the form found here.
~ ALOHA ~