Aloha! In this week’s video from Living in Hawaii, Carol Sparling and her contributors dive into the many ways you can get around the islands without a car. From biking through scenic landscapes to hopping on a scooter or using rideshares, they’ve covered it all! Let’s talk story about the eco-friendly and practical options they discussed and how you can make the most of them.
Biking in Hawaii
Why Biking is Awesome
During the video, Carol and her guests highlighted the perks of biking in Hawaii—it’s not just eco-friendly, but it’s also a wonderful way to explore the islands at a leisurely pace. You can soak in the views, feel the breeze, and even sneak in some exercise!
Oahu: The Bike-Friendly Hub
Christy Nakamura, a guest on the show, shared how Oahu leads the way with bike-friendly options. With over 60 miles of dedicated bike lanes and a bike-sharing program called Biki, it’s easy to get around Honolulu and Waikiki. Biki is a steal at $4.50 for 30 minutes or $12 per month. Plus, you’ve got King Street’s protected bike lanes for safer commutes. Just plan ahead because not all roads are bike-friendly.
Maui: Bike Adventures Await
Angie Metrick gave the lowdown on Maui, which offers fewer bike lanes but plenty of recreational opportunities. The Haleakala Downhill Bike Tour is a standout—imagine coasting downhill from the summit of a volcano! Bike rentals are widely available for those looking to explore on their own.
Big Island: For the Adventurous Rider
The Big Island offers breathtaking routes in Kona and Hilo. Angie mentioned the Ironman Triathlon route as a bucket-list ride for serious cyclists. It’s a challenging adventure with steep climbs and hot weather, so come prepared with water and a reliable bike.
Kauai and Molokai: Slow and Scenic
Yoko Humph shared that Kauai’s Kapaa multi-use path is a picturesque eight-mile stretch along the coast. On Molokai, you’ll find rural charm and peaceful rides—perfect for slowing down and enjoying the island vibe.
Scooters and Motorcycles
Renting Scooters and Motorcycles
Scooters and motorcycles are a popular choice, especially in busy tourist areas. Christy painted a vivid picture of locals balancing surfboards on their mopeds in Waikiki—a uniquely Hawaiian sight! On the Big Island, Angie noted that e-bikes are gaining traction, especially for navigating hilly terrain.
Pro Tips for Two-Wheeled Travel
- Oahu: Scooters and mopeds are perfect for urban areas but avoid steep highways.
- Big Island: E-bikes make tackling hills a breeze, while scenic roads like Queen Kaahumanu Highway are ideal for motorcycles.
Ridesharing in Hawaii
Getting Around with Uber and Lyft
Carol and Yoko discussed how ridesharing is a game-changer, especially for visitors. Uber and Lyft are readily available on Oahu, particularly in Honolulu and Waikiki, where parking is scarce and expensive. On the Big Island, they’re reliable in Kona and Hilo but limited elsewhere.
Insider Tips
- Look for designated rideshare pickup spots at airports.
- Schedule rides in advance to avoid delays.
- Some drivers might even offer private tours if you ask!
Wrapping It Up
The Living in Hawaii team emphasized that whether you’re biking, scooting, or catching a ride, Hawaii offers plenty of ways to explore without a car. These eco-friendly options not only reduce costs but also let you experience the islands’ natural beauty up close. Mahalo for joining us, and here’s to your next island adventure!
FAQs
- What’s the best way to get around Oahu without a car?
- Use Biki bikes, TheBus, or rideshares like Uber and Lyft.
- Can I rent a bike on Maui?
- Absolutely! Many shops offer rentals, and the Haleakala Downhill Tour is a must-try.
- Are e-scooters available on all the islands?
- They’re most common on Oahu and in urban areas.
- How reliable are rideshares on the Big Island?
- Great in Kona and Hilo, but not so much in rural areas.
- What’s the best scenic bike route on Kauai?
- The Kapaa multi-use path on the east side is a relaxing ride with stunning views.
What do you think?