Address: 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744, United States | Find on Maps
Buses are the only viable public transportation option to reach Kualoa Ranch, as the train system isn’t connected to the coastal sides of Oahu.
There are no direct buses that take you from Waikiki to Kualoa Ranch.
You can find the closest bus stop and board one of the following buses operating under the TheBus transit system: #8, #19, #20, #23, or #42.
You have to make a transfer at a central point and switch to a bus that will take you to Kaneohe, which will most likely be at Ala Moana Center (a shopping complex).
Distance from Waikiki: 24.5 miles (45 minutes)
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: 20.6 miles (35 minutes)
Average cost of Uber/Lyft: $50-$70 one-way (prices may vary depending on the vehicle booked, surge pricing, time of day, and other seasonal pricing)
Average rental car charges: $40-$200 per day (prices vary based on car type, rental company, duration, time of year, availability, and other factors).
How to reach: Take the H-1 Freeway West, which leads to Highway Route 63 through the Wilson Tunnel. After exiting the tunnel, you will leave Honolulu and enter Kaneohe town. Take the exit towards Route 83 and join the Kamehameha Highway. After 10 minutes, you will begin to see signs leading you to Kualoa Ranch.
Parking: Free, uncovered parking for all visitors. Accessible parking spots are located near the entrance.
The easiest and most reliable option is to drive in. The ranch is about 45-50 minutes from Waikiki by car, depending on traffic. You have the most flexibility & comfort of choice, as well as a reliable and personal mode of travel that way.
Yes, complimentary parking is available on-site for all visitors, including accessible parking near the main entrance. Since most guests drive in, you can spend 5-15 minutes looking for a spot to park, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is a smart move.
Ride-shares can work for getting to the ranch, but return rides can be tricky. Because of Kualoa’s remote location, drivers are not always readily available in the area. If you plan to use a ride-share one way, it’s best to arrange a return trip in advance or have a backup plan.
From Waikiki or Honolulu, expect a 45-50 minute drive. From the North Shore, the trip takes about 35-45 minutes. Adding extra travel time for peak hours (early mornings and late afternoons) is recommended.
If you’re coming from Honolulu or Waikiki, the most direct and scenic route is via H-1 East to H-3 East, then Kamehameha Highway (HI-83) along the coast. The drive offers beautiful ocean views and avoids city congestion.