Getting from the Waikiki Beachside Hostel in Honolulu to Pearl Harbor

Steve Fagaly • January 30, 2026

Sunrise to History: From Waikiki Beachside Hostel to Pearl Harbor

Staying at Waikiki Beachside Hostel, at 2556 Lemon Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, puts you steps from the beach and close to some of Oahu’s most important history. If Pearl Harbor is on your list, the good news is that getting there is simple once you pick the ride style that fits your day. This guide covers every option from the Waikiki, Honolulu Hostel to Pearl Harbor route, plus the tours and tickets you may want before you go.

Sailor and Marine in uniform overlooking the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.

Know Before You Go

Pearl Harbor’s main entry point is the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at 1 Arizona Memorial Pl. Admission to the visitor center is free. Some experiences require tickets, including the Arizona Memorial boat ride, which is listed at $1. If you want a bundle of attractions, the Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket is listed at $89 on the Pearl Harbor tickets site.

Option 1: City Bus

Honolulu’s public bus system is an affordable way to travel from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor. You will use TheBus, and you can check routes, schedules, and fare details at https://www.thebus.org/. Because bus routes and times can change, it helps to look up the current plan the morning you travel.

Why take the bus?

  • Budget friendly
  • Good choice if you are comfortable with transfers
  • Useful if you want to explore more of Honolulu on the way back

Bus tips for a smooth ride

  • Leave extra time for waiting and traffic
  • Bring water, especially on warm days
  • Screenshot your route plan in case your phone signal drops

Option 2: Taxi Cab

If you want a direct ride with no app required, a taxi is a straightforward choice. You can find local taxi information through The Cab Hawaii at https://www.thecabhawaii.com/. A taxi can be helpful if you are traveling with a small group and want to split the cost, or if you prefer a driver who knows the area well.

Pearl Harbor Memorial, white structure over water with US flag, honoring those lost during the attack.

Taxi works well when:

  • You want door to door service from the hostel
  • You have limited time and want fewer steps
  • You are carrying bags or gear


Option 3: Uber App

Rideshare is another easy way to go from the Waikiki Beachside Hostel to Pearl Harbor. With the Uber app, you request a car, get a pickup estimate, and head out when the driver arrives. This is a strong option for travelers who like seeing the price estimate in the app and paying without cash.

Rideshare pointers

  • Confirm the pickup spot near 2556 Lemon Rd before you request
  • Double check the destination as Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
  • If you are visiting at a popular time, request earlier than you think you need

Option 4: Guided Tours and Tickets

Some visitors prefer a guided plan, especially if they want everything lined up in one purchase. Tours and ticket options are available at https://pearl-harbor-tickets.com/visit-pearl-harbor/. The site lists the Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket at $89, which can be useful if you want a packaged option instead of booking pieces one at a time.


What a tour style visit can do for you

  • Removes guesswork about timing
  • Helps you stay focused on the experience
  • Can be easier for first time visitors
Pearl Harbor Memorial with wreaths, white architecture, and a dark wall.

Tickets to know

  • Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Free
  • Arizona Memorial boat ride: $1
  • Passport to Pearl Harbor Ticket: $89


Plan to arrive with your essentials, keep bags light, and be ready for a calm, respectful visit. Check your ticket confirmation and official visitor information for last minute updates. From Waikiki, starting earlier can help you avoid traffic and give yourself breathing room between stops and for extra quiet time on site.

Option 5: Shuttle

There is no shuttle listed for this trip, so plan on one of the options above.

How to Choose the Best Ride

If you want the lowest cost, start with TheBus. If you want the most direct route, choose a taxi or Uber. If you want a structured day with ticket support, review the tour and ticket options online and choose what matches your priorities.

Quick decision checklist

  • Tight budget: Bus
  • Tight schedule: Taxi or Uber
  • Prefer guidance: Tour and tickets


Make the Trip, Meet the Moment

Pearl Harbor is one of those places that stays with you. Starting from Waikiki Beachside Hostel in Honolulu, you can reach it in a way that fits your style, whether that means public transit, a private ride, or a ticketed plan. Pick your option, confirm your ticket needs, and give yourself time to take it all in once you arrive.

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