Aloha and mahalo! There is nowhere quite like Hawai’i, or at least for me.The beauty and spirit of the islands comforts me — but the prices, not so much. Let me share the secret of getting around Waikiki on a budget.  Welcome to Waikiki Trolley. Explore this little slice of island paradise (and surrounding area) at a bargain price, all with a private-ish local tour guide to boot.

There are four lines with four routes to choose from: pink, red, blue and green. All are hop-on, hop-off experiences meaning you can get off at any stop to shop, eat, look around and then hop-on again with a later trolley. Each route is a flat $20.00 per day fare except for the pink line which is $2.00 each time you hop-on unless you purchase a multiple day (four to be specific) pass for $59.00. This pass lets you ride any line, any time, and as often as you like within your alloted time period (I highly recommend this option).

The drivers share insights about what you are seeing and often suggest local places to visit, eat at or experience all between jokes, impromptu singing and amusing observations and all in the uniquely Hawaiian “aloha” spirit. I felt a kinship to the drivers as I often share with Spaceman all sorts of hysterical comments (and commentaries) to which I am too often the only one laughing (I know, crazy!).

Here’s a breakdown of the lines:

• Pink Line features Waikiki and the Ala Moana Shopping Mall
• Red Line features historic Honolulu
• Green Line features Diamond Head
• Blue Line features a panoramic coastline tour

Get out and explore Waikiki without the worry of blowing your budget.

* I featured a similar post highlighting how to see the city of Perth for free here.