Un-Written Rules You Should Know

• Drive with Aloha. Let cars go in front of you, go slow and give pedestrians the right away.
• If cars are stopped in front of you for no reason, do NOT switch lanes to continue, assume there is a pedestrian.
• Our most busy crosswalks have a new pattern that allows all pedestrians to cross at once to include diagonally so DO NOT assume you can turn on a red traffic light and watch for confused pedestrians trying to cross at the wrong time.
• DO NOT HONK your car horn unless it is an absolute emergency; it is considered rude to honk at someone.
• Do not leave valuables in an un-attended car anywhere and do NOT flaunt your spending money.
• Be smart where you park or you could face an unexpected tow bill ($250) if you do not obey the signs.
• Most people you meet are friendly and kind however beware if you come across an unstable person who may have a mental illness, go the other way. Often they are just yelling at nobody. Trust your gut instinct.
• Hawaii has a homeless problem, several choose not to live in shelters but choose to live on the streets instead, and for the most part they do not want to harm you although they could ask for money or food.
• Waikiki Ambassadors’ are part of the welcome center and patrol Waikiki on foot and bike to help our visitors with directions or information. Know that they wear neon yellow / green labeled shirts and are there for you.
• Do not turn your back on the ocean. Do not go to the edge of cliffs or the ocean. Use caution at all times and be aware the beauty of our island can sometimes catch you off guard. Take caution to posted signs and check with a life guard for any current conditions you should be aware of at our public beaches.
• Take what you bring and leave all that you don’t bring when hiking, beaching, or exploring the islands. You would be surprised just how many people “mail” items back. Respect the land, water & air as we do.
• Ask lifeguard or check posted signs on the beach for jellyfish warnings, high surf, strong currents or rip currents.
• Do not go surfing, snorkeling or hiking alone. Always let someone know where you are going if you will be alone.

GROCERIES

Safeway – Located outside of Waikiki on Kapahulu Ave. The #13 bus drops off and picks up right in front.Foodland Farms – Located outside of Waikiki at The Ala Moana Mall at 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. The #13 or #19 bus drops off and picks up right in front.

Whole Foods – Located outside of Waikiki at The Kahala Mall at 4211 Wai’alae Ave. The #22 or #23 bus drops off and picks up right in front.

Farmers Markets – From fresh cut tropical island fruits and vegetables to pastries and pupus (appetizers), there is something for everyone.  Locations and times have changed since Covid-19 shutdown.

KID FRIENDLY

Honolulu Zoo – Yes there is a Zoo here and it is so close…just at the end of Waikiki as you’re going toward Diamond Head. Open daily.

Waikiki Aquarium – Located along the beach past the zoo in the direction of Diamond Head; Open daily and night tours offered too.

WAIKIKI FREEBIES

Fireworks – Every Friday after sunset usually between 7:30 – 7:45pm compliments of the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Hula Show – Authentic Hawaiian Music and hula shows by Hawaii’s finest halau hula (dance troops) and Hawaiian Performers. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, weather permitting, 6:30 to 7:30 pm (6:00 to 7:00 pm November thru December) at the hula mound on the beach at Kalakaua and Uluniu.

Lei Making – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Avenue,  Monday-Saturday 1:00 to 2:00 pm.

‘Ukulele Lessons – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Avenue, Tuesday thru Friday 10:00 to -11:00 am.

Hula Lessons – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Ave. Tuesday 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, Thursday 4:00 – 5:00 pm.

The Bus & Popular Routes

The island of Oahu is easily accessible via The Bus, operated by the City and County of Honolulu. Most routes are serviced every 15-30 minutes and cover the whole island. Bus stops are located in front of the property, and you can circle the island right from the same block. Hanauma Bay for snorkeling, Sunset Beach on the North Shore and Pearl Harbor are all within reach! All fares are $2.75 each way (as of June 2020). Discounts such as Senior and Child may be available. 1-day passes are $5.50 and if you are staying a month or so, it’s best to buy a monthly pass for $70.00 at most ABC Stores in Waikiki. Both pass options allow for unlimited travel over the given time period. However know that The Bus does not allow luggage on the bus so you should plan to get other transportation to or from the airport. Download The Bus app for easiest use to plan ahead.

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW AND REMINDERS

If you are planning to return home with gifts or to take something back to remember your stay then you might prefer the prices at the “Swap Meet” at the Aloha Stadium on Saturday or Sunday. You can also try Walmart near the Ala Moana Shopping Center; they usually have a good selection of souvenirs, mac nuts, etc. If you plan to take home Pineapples or other fruits & veggies, make sure they will clear the airport screening by asking the vender – some pineapple boxes are marked, some are NOT.

If you have a return ticket for a shuttle service to the airport, it’s usually a good idea to arrange your pick-up time 48-hours in advance. Always plan to leave Waikiki three (3) hours before departure if you are checking bags with your airline. Remember, all checked luggage must clear agriculture screening prior to checking in with your airline.

Please enjoy your stay safely!

Your Waikiki Bucket List

The app is not meant to replace meeting us in person but is a fabulous tool to compliment your guest experience.  The app gives you access to your reservation information and guest information from your mobile device. Make reservation payments, check-out from your reservations, and even book future vacations. These are just a small amount of things the Happy Stays Guest Mobile App can do for you! We are regularly adding new content, restaurants, tours and adventures for you to consider. Enjoy and always have a Happy Stay!

Once you complete your reservation, we will send you a link to download the Happy Stays app and provide you with a reservation access code.

  Apple iOS App Store
Google Play App Store

Navigating the Happy Stays Guest Mobile App

The main screen contains your reservation information and your Wi-Fi broadband Internet code.  A link to reservation details is available with cost and payment information. You can use the reservation details link to provide us feedback on your stay. At the top right of the app you have three horizontal lines which is the button to access visitor information.  Within visitor information, you have access to information specific to

1. 1. First Time Visitors
   2. Shuttles
   3. Office Directions
   4. Hawaiian Culture
   5. Guest Experience
   6. Local Restaurants
   7. Tours and Excursions
   8. Weather
   9. Videos

Pest wise you a most likely to come across a gecko. Some consider them cute and others are terrified by them.  They are afraid of you and will avoid you but they will eat any bugs that may be around.  You are unlikely to come across any bugs in your accommodations as all our units are inspected and treated by EPA-certified, safe pesticides, quarterly.

Traveler checks are usually accepted, but you should be aware that some merchants might look at you like you just tried to offer them a foreign currency. You should also know that Discover Card seems to be less welcome here than at other destinations and many places do not accept them.

If you are going to spend any time at the beach, woven bamboo beach mats can be found all over the island, are inexpensive alternatives to beach towels, can be rolled up for convenient storage, and the sand comes off the mat rather easily.

Please remember that Hawaii is not a Disney Land rather it is Mother Nature and she is hard, slippery, sharp, and unpredictable. Hiking guides and websites do not know the current conditions. Nothing is static and nothing can take the place of your own observations and good judgement.  Always trust your judgment and if you are seeking adventure prepare yourself for adventure. There are lots of wonderful things to do on the island and we want you to be safe and happy.

Hawaii is regarded as a paradise for its beautiful oceans, mountains, forests, and weather. Visitors often remark how the days are long and the weeks are short. Those lucky enough to a stay a while longer feel as if summer never ends.

Because of our tropical location, the length of daylight does not vary greatly throughout the year. Hawaii Standard Time is in effect year round.  In summertime, we enjoy longer days with the sun rising over the horizon around 5:30 am and setting to the west around 7:00 pm.  While the winter time brings us shorter days with the sunrise around 7:00 am and sunset around 6:00 pm.

Hawaii does not change its clocks for Daylight Savings Time so depending on the time of year we can be 5 to 6 hours behind the east coast of the United States and 19 to 20 hours behind Tokyo, and 20 to 21 hours behind Sydney.

Hawaiian Time

One aspect of Hawaiian culture you may have heard is Hawaiian time.  According to the urban dictionary, Hawaiian time entails employing a Laissez-faire attitude towards matters of punctuality. The stereotype is that everyone in Hawaii move just a little bit slower than on the continental United States. After your visit you can decide whether Hawaiian time is a stereotype or something that actually exists. Hopefully, during your visit, you will notice that this feeling infects you.  The reason you are visiting Hawaii is for its beauty and sense of peace. If someone is moving a little bit slower than you, just go with it.

Getting from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki: Your Best Options

If you’re visiting Oʻahu, you’ll arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). From there, you have several convenient ways to reach Waikiki, depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort level.

Most visitors don’t need a car for their entire stay, so we recommend choosing transportation based on your plans. Let’s walk through your options.

🚕 Taxi (Cab)

Taxis are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to Waikiki.

• Travel time: ~30 minutes
• Cost: $40–$65 (one-way)
• Pick-up location: Lower level (baggage claim)

Taxis are typically lined up and ready to go, so wait times are minimal—great if you just want to get to your hotel quickly.

🚐 Airport Shuttle

Shared shuttle services are a budget-friendly alternative.

• Travel time: 30–45 minutes (depending on stops)
• Cost: Around $30 (one-way)
• Pick-up location: Lower level

A popular option is Roberts Hawaii, with shuttles running every 15–30 minutes. You can usually pay onboard.

🚌 City Bus (“TheBus”)

For travelers on a budget, the public bus system is very affordable.

• Travel time: 35+ minutes
• Cost: $3 (exact cash) or $7.50 day pass
• Pick-up location: Upper level (departures level)

TheBus runs frequently and can take you directly to Waikiki. However, note:

• Large luggage is not allowed
• Space is limited during busy times

Be sure to confirm with the driver that the route is heading to Waikiki before boarding.

🚗 Rental Car

Renting a car gives you flexibility—but it’s not always necessary.

Oʻahu is unique among the Hawaiian islands because you can easily enjoy your stay without a car, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki.

Our recommendation:

• Rent a car only for 1–2 days to explore areas like the North Shore
• Use public transit, walking, or rideshare the rest of the time

Keep in mind:

• Parking in Waikiki can be expensive (sometimes as much as the rental itself)
• Street parking is limited and not always convenient

To save money, consider renting from a Waikiki location only on the days you need it.

🚗 Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)

Rideshare services are widely available and easy to use.

• Cost: ~$36–$77 depending on demand
• Travel time: ~30 minutes

This is often the best balance between cost and convenience, especially for small groups.

🛵 Alternative: Mopeds & Scooters

For short trips around Waikiki, renting a moped or scooter can be a fun and convenient option—just be mindful of traffic and parking rules.

🚦 Driving on Oʻahu: What to Expect

Driving on Oʻahu can feel confusing at first.

• Road names sometimes change unexpectedly
• Highways are labeled H-1, H-2, and H-3 (despite not connecting to other states)
• You cannot drive around the entire island—the road ends at Kaʻena Point

Traffic can also be heavy, especially during rush hours. Keep in mind:

• The island is relatively small (about 597 square miles)
• Congestion is common during work commute times

Using navigation apps like Google Maps will make your experience much easier.

🚘 Local Driving Tips

• Directions are often given using:
  • Mauka = toward the mountains
  • Makai = toward the ocean
• Never leave valuables in your car
• Rental cars are easy targets for theft
• If storing items in your trunk, do so before arriving at your destination

Final Thoughts

For most visitors, the best strategy is:

• Use rideshare or shuttle from the airport
• Skip the rental car for most of your stay
• Rent a car only when you’re ready to explore the island

This approach saves money, reduces stress, and lets you enjoy Waikiki at your own pace.

Following is a suggested list of what to bring on your trip to Hawaii including common travel necessities as well as reminders for those often forgettable travel items.

Helpful hint: Check with your airline regarding what you can carry on the plane as new rules and regulations change. Also, check the weather forecast for your destination, as well as local customs for clothing guidelines. Remember, travel experts advise to pack light.

Waikiki is a self-contained metropolis where nearly 70 percent of Oahu visitors reside with the remaining 30 percent being permanent residents and of those permanent residents the majority of local residents are unmarried enjoying the glitz and glamour in this languorous tropical paradise.  The Waikiki lifestyle is not a normal routine. An eclectic and blissful harmony of honeymooners, teenagers, conventioneers, business people, retirees, beach goers, and local residents. Waikiki is a fantasy world – exciting and relaxing, fleeting and eternal.

WHAT TO BRING

How to prepare for your Hawaii stay? Assuming you are coming to Hawaii to enjoy the outdoors then this list can assist you in planning what to bring for a safe and enjoyable stay.  All the items on the list can be purchased or rented once you are here but if you have the space in your luggage and want to save some $$ consider packing these items.

• Waterproof sunblock (SPF 50 or higher – sun is most intense between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm)
• Two bathing suites
• Beach towels
• Flip flops, reef walking shoes, hiking shoes (most restaurants have a lax dress code)
• Mask, snorkel and fins (can be rented)
• Hiking attire or clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy
• Light rain jacket
• Mosquito repellent for hikes into the wilderness
• Large insulated water container
• Shorts and other cool cotton clothing
• Small pack or backpack
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Toiletries and medications
• Phone charger

General Packing Tips

• Pack heavy items, such as shoes and toiletry kits, before the more delicate ones. Place them along the suitcase’s spine to balance weight at the bottom.
• To reduce wrinkling, turn jackets inside out and fold them in half with tissue paper or dry-cleaning bags. Layering plastic bags or tissue between clothes also helps prevent wrinkles.
• Hang clothing in the bathroom while showering to steam out wrinkles.
• Line the bottom of your suitcase with your trousers and let the legs hang over the outside edge of the suitcase. Then pack the rest of your travel gear with the lighter materials on top. Wrap trouser legs over the pile; they’ll keep their crease.
• Stuff socks and rolled-up belts into shoes to save space.
• Take along plastic bags for laundry or wet swimsuits.
• Bring an empty, soft bag for souvenirs.