Skyline Is Evolving on Oahu
Getting around Oahu often means traffic or tricky bus timing. Skyline has not changed everything yet, but its growing reach is already making travel easier where it runs. If you are just getting used to it or riding more often, this guide lays out what you need to know—when it operates, where it goes, what it costs and how it connects with TheBus. Lets get into it.
The maintenance yard and viaduct for Honolulu Rail Transit, looking southwest from Pearl City, Hawaii.
2025 Hours and Expanded Service
Skyline Phase 1 runs from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, with weekdays from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends and holidays starting at 8 a.m. into the early evening. Phase 2 is expected to open on October 15, 2025, pending final certification and city handoff. Extended hours are anticipated—likely from around 4 a.m. to about 10:30 p.m.—but exact times are still unconfirmed by official sources. For official announcements and information take a look at the Rail Operations website.
New Stops and Route Extensions
Phase 2 will introduce four new stops, serving Pearl Harbor, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport at Lelepaua Station, Lagoon Drive and the Middle Street–Kalihi Transit Center. These will greatly improve access to key locations when service begins on October 15, 2025.
Fares HOLO Card and Transfers
Skyline uses the same fare structure as TheBus via the HOLO card. Adult fare is 3 dollars per ride with a 2.5 hour transfer window, so you can hop from rail to bus or back without extra cost. Daily fare is capped at 7.50 and monthly fare at 80 dollars. HOLO cards cost 2 dollars and can be registered, reloaded online, set to auto reload or replaced if lost—once registered.
Bus Connections and Syncing with Skyline
TheBus and Skyline work together under one payment system. You tap in with your HOLO card and have 2.5 hours to transfer between them with no extra charges. TheBus normally updates its routes in March and October to sync better with rail expansions. New routes like the W Line and others to UH West Oahu or Ewa Beach reflect that coordination.
Waikiki, Honolulu Panorama by Edmund Garman is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original.
Local Tips for Easy Commuting
Set up your HOLO card early to avoid lines and make boardings smooth. Mid mornings or early afternoons are your best bet for a chill ride. If you are catching the first or last train of the day, aim to show up a bit early. Park and Ride options at places like Hoopili and Pearlridge are handy if you are coming from further away. Schedule TheBus to Skyline transfers with a little buffer so you wont miss your next ride.
Conclusion
Skyline does not cover all of Oahu yet, but its growing presence is already changing how people get around near the line. With Phase 2 on the way in 2025, new stations and smart payment via HOLO, it is worth learning how to integrate it into your daily routine.
FAQs
When does Phase 2 open for riders?
Phase 2 is set to open on October 15, 2025, as confirmed by city officials.
Can I pay cash on Skyline?
No. Only HOLO cards are accepted for train and bus fares.
How often do trains run?
During most of the day, trains run every 10 minutes or so at stations with higher traffic. Frequency may vary earlier or later in the day.
What do you think?