How to get to Windward Coast, Oahu

If you want to experience Oahu’s windward coast, the first step is to book a flight to Oahu. Luckily for you, that is not too hard to do because there are a number of airlines that make regular trips from the mainland to Oahu. Tickets are also available online, where they cost 10 to 30 percent cheaper than tickets you would get from your regular travel agent.

Getting to the Windward Coast

If you want to get to the Windward coast from Honolulu, the road to take would be the Pali Highway. The road starts on a gradual ascent that is known for its lush greenery as well as its spectacular view of the Pacific below. The Windward coast can be explored by going up 30 miles of rugged coastline and white sandy beaches dotted here and there by large and small beach towns and nearby islets. The coast ends in the North shore, which is known for its luxury hotels and upscale resorts.

When to Fly

The windward coast is located in Oahu, which is not affected by seasonal climate, although it is more prone to rainfall than other parts of the island. So, you will probably have more fun there in the summer; that is, if you are not too fickle about sharing the island with other summer-loving tourists. June, July and August are the perfect months to go to the island.

The winter months are known for its scattered rainstorms and thunderstorms, especially along the windward coast. December, January and February are the winter months although the temperatures do not show that drastic a drop from summer temperatures, making the island still a perfectly suitable destination for those looking for warm days on the beach. Those who want to get cheaper airfare and spend less on accommodation may want to go during the winter, as most prices go down in the winter months. This is also the time to visit the island if you do not want to deal with the throngs of tourists.

Booking a Flight to Oahu

The Honolulu international airport is located in Oahu and is Hawaii’s major airport, and it is also the main port of entry for most tourists. This is served by 23 major domestic carriers and sixteen international carriers from all over the world. Most major carriers from the mainland usually take off from Los Angeles, San Diego, Texas, and other local airports.

Local air carriers provide interisland flights, among them Go! and Hawaiian Airlines. Hawaiian Airlines provides several flights daily between Honolulu and Kauai, Maui and the big Island. It also has a code-sharing service that provides flights to Moloka`i, Lana`i and west Maui. Started in 1929, Hawaiian Airlines is one of the most reliable airlines servicing the islands.

Go! is a virtual newcomer to the airline industry servicing the islands. It is owned by Messa group and offers one of the cheapest rates in flights to Kauai, Maui and Hilo or the Big Island from Honolulu.

Getting from the Airport

You can take a shuttle from the airport to any hotel or resort in Waikiki, or hire a taxi or a van. Those looking to splurge can also hire vans or limousines, as there are services for different kinds of rides right in the airport. Airport Shuttle services provide rides from the Honolulu Airport to Waikiki for around $10 to $15. Another option is the Waikiki trolley which passes most of the popular tourist destinations in Waikiki. You can purchase an all-day ticket that will give you unlimited rides on the Blue, Red, and Pink Lines. However, if you really want a good chance to explore the island on your own, renting a car is a better choice. Rental agencies like Avis, Budget, Alamo and Enterprise have been providing rentals for riding around the island for years. You can also rent a bike. Bike rides are perfect for those looking for more adventure on their trip and this is a good way to see the island, especially the spectacular views that the windward coast has to offer, up close.

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WINDWARD COAST