Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation destinations for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With stunning beaches, lush mountains, world-class resorts, and endless activities, it’s easy to see why. But once you land, the question quickly arises: how do you get around?
For many visitors, especially families traveling with kids, the choice often comes down to Uber vs. taxis. Both options exist throughout Hawaii, but they come with different pros, cons, and levels of convenience depending on which island you’re visiting.
Our family recently faced this very question while traveling from Los Angeles to Oahu. We tested both Uber and taxis during our stay, and this post is our complete breakdown:
Availability across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Cost comparisons between Uber and taxis.
Wait times, convenience, and pickup experiences.
Family-friendliness and safety considerations.
Pros and cons of each option.
Insider tips to save money and stress.
FAQs to help you plan before you go.
By the end, you’ll know exactly whether Uber or a taxi is the smarter choice for your Hawaii vacation.
The Basics: Uber & Taxis in Hawaii
Uber in Hawaii
Available in Oahu (Honolulu & Waikiki), Maui, Big Island, and Kauai.
Popular for airport transfers, Waikiki runs, and resort-to-dinner trips.
Pricing can fluctuate due to surge pricing, especially during peak hours.
Taxis in Hawaii
Regulated fares, available at airports, resorts, and popular tourist spots.
Less convenient for remote areas—often need to be called ahead.
Higher base fare but predictable pricing.
👉 Both options are widely available in Oahu, but less so on neighbor islands.
Cost Comparison: Uber vs. Taxis in Hawaii
Let’s break down typical costs for popular routes.
From Honolulu Airport (HNL) to Waikiki (Approx. 10 miles)
Uber: $25–$40 (depending on time of day & demand).
Taxi: ~$45 flat rate (regulated fare).
From Waikiki to Hanauma Bay
Uber: $30–$50.
Taxi: $55–$65.
From Maui Airport (OGG) to Lahaina
Uber: $45–$70 (when available).
Taxi: $80–$100.
👉 Verdict: Uber is usually cheaper, but prices spike with demand. Taxis are pricier but consistent.
Availability & Wait Times
Uber
Oahu (Honolulu/Waikiki): Widely available, especially around resorts and popular attractions. Wait times: 5–15 minutes.
Maui: Available, but fewer drivers—wait times 15–25 minutes.
Big Island: Limited in remote areas; easier near Kona.
Kauai: Sporadic; sometimes unavailable outside tourist hubs.
Taxis
Airports & Resorts: Always available at stands.
Remote Areas: May require calling ahead.
Wait Times: Instant at stands, but calling one can take 15–30 minutes.
👉 Families may prefer Uber in Oahu, taxis on smaller islands for reliability.
Family Perspective: Traveling with Kids
Uber Pros for Families
App Convenience: Order from your phone, no waiting in taxi lines.
Cheaper for Short Trips: Helps families save money.
Car Seats (sometimes): UberX Car Seat option in Oahu (limited).
Uber Cons
Car Seat Issue: Most drivers don’t carry car seats—parents must bring their own.
Surge Pricing: Unexpected costs during peak times.
Limited Drivers on Neighbor Islands: Risk of long waits.
Taxi Pros for Families
Reliable at Airports & Resorts: Always available after a long flight.
Larger Vehicles: Vans available for families with lots of luggage.
Professional Drivers: Experienced with local routes.
Taxi Cons
Expensive: Costs add up quickly for longer rides.
Less Flexible: Harder to call for pickup in remote areas.
Dated Vehicles: Some taxis aren’t as clean or modern as Uber cars.
Safety Considerations
Both options are generally safe in Hawaii.
Uber: Drivers are background-checked; you see driver details and car info in advance.
Taxi: Licensed and regulated by local authorities; fares monitored.
💡 Parent Tip: If traveling with little ones, plan for car seats—Hawaii law requires them for children under 4, and booster seats for ages 4–7.
Service & Comfort
Uber
Cleanliness: Generally good, especially in tourist areas.
Flexibility: Can choose vehicle type (UberX, Comfort, XL for bigger families).
Comfort: Air conditioning and modern cars are common.
Taxi
Cleanliness: Varies—some newer vans, some older cars.
Comfort: Basic but fine for short trips.
Service: Professional drivers, but less personal than Uber.
👉 If you want comfort and a personalized experience, Uber usually wins.
When Uber Wins in Hawaii
Short rides around Honolulu or Waikiki.
When you want cashless payment.
When you want flexibility and app-based convenience.
Budget-conscious families who don’t want flat taxi fares.
When Taxis Win in Hawaii
Direct rides from the airport without waiting for an Uber.
On smaller islands where Uber availability is limited.
When traveling with lots of luggage or big groups (taxis with vans).
During peak surge pricing hours when Uber costs skyrocket.
Insider Tips for Parents
Download the Uber app before arrival—cell service at airports can be spotty.
Ask hotels if they partner with taxis—many offer fixed rates.
Bring a lightweight travel booster seat—essential for kids.
Avoid peak hours (early morning, dinner time) to save on Uber surges.
Use UberXL for families—more room for kids and luggage.
What Other Travelers Say
“Uber saved us so much money in Waikiki, but it was hard to get one on Maui.”
“Taxis were reliable at the airport, but so expensive!”
“Families should definitely plan ahead for car seats—it’s the trickiest part.”
“We ended up mixing both: taxis for airport transfers, Uber for local trips.”
FAQs
Is Uber available in Hawaii?
Yes, on Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai, but availability varies by island.
Are taxis more expensive than Uber in Hawaii?
Yes, usually—taxis have higher flat rates, while Uber is cheaper for short trips.
Do Ubers in Hawaii have car seats?
Rarely. In Oahu, some UberX Car Seat options exist, but parents should bring their own.
What’s the best way for families to get from the airport to Waikiki?
If Uber prices aren’t surging, Uber is cheaper. Otherwise, taxis are faster and guaranteed.
Should we rent a car instead?
For exploring beyond resorts, yes. Uber and taxis work best for short trips, but cars are essential for remote adventures.
Final Verdict: Uber or Taxi?
After testing both, our conclusion is simple:
Oahu (Honolulu/Waikiki): Uber wins for cost and convenience.
Maui & Big Island: Mix of both—Uber when available, taxis for guaranteed rides.
Kauai: Taxis or rental cars are more reliable than Uber.
👉 For families, Uber is better for short city trips where it’s widely available, while taxis are better for guaranteed rides (especially from airports or remote areas).
