The appropriately named Kahuku (which means projection in Hawaiian) is the northernmost point on Oahu, found between Turtle Bay Resort and the town of Laie. It’s a pure island country town, recognizable by man-made fishponds and shrimp farms, serving as a bridge between the windward side (via Laie) and the North Shore most visitors come to see. That being said, Kahuku is a charming community in itself and if you’re staying in the area you won’t be disappointed. Today, we’re going to provide you with the information you need to choose the most logical way to get there from HNL.
Two Things Visitors Need to Know When Heading from Honolulu International Airport to Kahuku
It’s the Furthest Place from the Airport
Kahuku is officially the furthest census-designated place (city, town, village, etc.) on Oahu from Honolulu International Airport. That means choosing the right from of transportation is essential to a positive experience, timely delivery, and cost sensitive means to reaching the approximately 40-mile away destination. This removes many options from the equation.
Transit? You’re facing 159 stops for a total of 2.5 to 3 hours between HNL and Kahuku. And that’s if you don’t have any luggage, as the bus driver has been instructed by the Honolulu Transit Authority to not accept anything larger than a carry-on.
Taxi? It’s bad enough that you’d have to take the 40-mile drive in an uncomfortable traditional taxi (Honolulu taxis don’t have the best reputation), you’re also looking at approximately $170 one-way with tip:
Source: TaxiFareFinder.com
Ride share? Again, Kahuku is the northernmost destination on the island, so UberXL, which is likely necessary for your party size and luggage load, is extremely limited. If you do find one, UberXL estimates about $160 from HNL to Kahuku during the prime airport arrival times running between 9 AM and 3 PM. Then of course there are the other reasons to avoid ride share services from HNL. That being said, for other island trips, they (Uber/Lyft) can be great so save it for once you’ve checked into your Kahuku accommodations.
Car rental? Unless you’re well versed in navigating Honolulu and Oahu traffic which is constantly ranked among the worst in the nation, you most certainly won’t want to start your Oahu adventure stuck between behind the wheel amidst other rentals, disgruntled truck drivers, and road construction crews along the HI-83 E or HI-83 W. Like with ride share, this transportation option is best kept for after you’ve nestled into your North Shore accommodations. Leave your trip to a professional while you and your party sit back and enjoy the views.
Given the unique location of Kahuku in relation to the airport, your best option is a direct, flat rate, no share shuttle. Honolulu Airport Transfer offers exactly that, at the most cost efficient rate on the island, especially when you consider the friendly, professional, and comfortable experience that comes with it. Our brand new fleet of Sienna minivans will whisk you, your party, and luggage away from baggage claim to your Kahuka vacation rental in the most comfortable and aloha-filled way possible.
Book your private shuttle from HNL to Kahuku – just $120
Waiting to Check-In
The only major hotel within Kahuku is Turtle Bay Resort, but if you’re searching for information on how to get from HNL to the town of Kahuku you’re most likely staying in a vacation rental via Airbnb, VRBO, or other home-stay booking service. While check in times will vary (anytime after 12 PM) they typically align with hotels and resorts, which is 3 PM. If you’re arriving at HNL early, killing time in Kahuku isn’t as easy as it is in Waikiki, Ko Olina, or even in the North Shore’s Haleiwa Town. Kicking around a manmade fish-pond and shrimp farm doesn’t exactly top your list of “things to do” on your first day on Oahu. Still, there is enough to keep you occupied, namely a visit to the Kahuku food truck collective. There, you will find world famous Giovanni’s shrimp truck, Ty’s Beach Bus, HI-BBQ, Ono Yo, Thong’s Thai, Nelly’s Tacos, and a hunger-inducing hoard of delectable mobile eateries to satisfy your cravings for everything from garlic shrimp plates to shave ice. For adventurous souls seeking to check a high-octane item off of the itinerary early, you can also book CLIMB Works Zipline Tour. Or, if you want to just relax in air-conditioned comfort for a few hours you don’t have to be staying at Turtle Bay to chill at their indoor lobby lounge where you can enjoy exotic cocktails and diverse menu while watching the game on TV, or the playful waves outside of the window.
View more on how to kill time while waiting to check into your vacation rental, which for you can include a custom driving tour of the North Shore.
We hope the information above provided you with some greater insight into your first visit to Kahuku. To book your private Honolulu Airport shuttle to this northern island town, call us toll FREE at 1.800.929.1219.