Daytime & Overnight Parking in Honolulu & Waikiki

Navigating parking options in Waikiki and Honolulu can be tricky for visitors. Whether you’re renting a car to explore Oahu’s scenic spots or just need a place to park near your hotel, knowing the right parking strategies will save you time, money, and stress. This guide breaks down the parking landscape for both Waikiki and Honolulu, offering insights into daytime and overnight parking options.


Waikiki Parking: Where to Park During the Day and Overnight

Free parkingWaikiki is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii, known for its high-end hotels, beaches, and bustling nightlife. However, parking in this area can be both limited and expensive. Below are options and tips to make parking more manageable.

Hotel Parking in Waikiki

  • Cost: $35–$50 per night, with valet options often adding an additional fee.
  • In/out privileges: Some hotels offer unlimited in/out, while others charge per exit.
  • Discounts: Ask if your hotel offers discounted rates with travel points or extended stays.

Pro tip: Before booking, inquire whether parking is included in the resort fee, as this can save you from unexpected charges.


Free and Street Parking in Waikiki

  1. Ala Wai Canal:
    • Free daytime parking along the canal, but limited availability.
    • Restrictions on Mondays and Fridays for street cleaning.
  2. Waikiki Shell and Kapiolani Park:
    • Free spaces available during the day but tend to fill quickly.
    • Ideal for beach visits or nearby dining.
  3. Street Meters:
    • Cost: $1–$1.50 per hour with a 4-hour limit in most areas.
    • Metered parking is enforced daily until 6 PM, and some zones offer free parking after-hours
  4. Diamond Head Road Area: Ample metered parking is available along Diamond Head Road, especially near Kapiolani Park, offering convenient access to scenic areas.
  5. Kaioo Drive and Wai Nani Streets: Free street parking is still available at both ends of Waikiki, providing budget-friendly options for those willing to explore less central areas.
  6. Side Streets off Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues: Metered parking can also be found along these side streets, ideal for visitors wanting to stay close to Waikiki’s main attractions.

Caution: Always read the posted signs carefully, as overnight parking is usually prohibited on many streets.

Parking Garages in Waikiki

Waikiki offers several parking garages, but prices can vary significantly.

  • Waikiki Banyan Garage:
    • Rate: $15 per day with in/out privileges.
    • Long-term options: Weekly and monthly rates available.
    • Convenient location for those staying in central Waikiki.
  • Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center:
    • First hour free with merchant validation, then $2/hour up to a daily max.
    • Close to many restaurants and retail shops, making it useful for daytime trips.
  • Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel Garage:
    • Self-parking for $42/day, but discounted rates are possible for hotel guests.

Tip: Parking garages in Waikiki may not be the cheapest option, but they offer peace of mind, particularly if you’re looking for secure overnight parking.


Honolulu Parking: Daytime and Overnight Options

parking meterWhile Waikiki focuses primarily on tourists, Honolulu serves as both the urban center and gateway to Oahu’s attractions. If you plan to explore beyond Waikiki—such as Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or downtown—finding parking in the city can require a bit of planning.

Street and Metered Parking in Honolulu

  • Daytime Meters:
    • Rates range from $1 to $3 per hour depending on location.
    • Maximum time limits typically apply (up to 4 hours).
    • Free parking at most meters on Sundays and public holidays.
  • Residential Street Parking:
    • Limited free parking options in residential areas outside downtown Honolulu.
    • Be cautious about local restrictions; parking in unauthorized areas can result in tickets or towing.
  • Ala Moana Beach Park:
    • Free parking is available but fills up early, especially on weekends.
    • This lot is a good base if you’re exploring both Honolulu and nearby attractions.

Public Garages and Lots in Honolulu

Public garages provide a practical alternative to street parking in Honolulu, especially for visitors staying outside the downtown area.

  • Harbor Court Parking:
  • Chinatown Municipal Parking:
  • Bishop Square Parking:
    • 1003 Bishop St, Honolulu, HI 96813
    • Weekdays: $3 per 20 minutes, with a $40 daily max.
    • Evening rate: Flat $7 after 4 PM.
    • Central location near business districts and government offices.

Tip: If you’re planning multiple stops, using public garages ensures you avoid parking tickets and makes it easier to explore without worrying about time limits.


NOTICE No Overnight Parking METAL Aluminum composite outdoor sign

Can You Park Overnight at a Rental Car Facility in Honolulu or Waikiki?

Unlike some mainland airports, rental car facilities in Hawaii do not allow overnight parking—whether it’s for a rental car or personal vehicle. All rental cars must be returned during business hours unless you arrange after-hours drop-off.

Alternative Solution: Some visitors opt to rent cars for a single day, returning them each evening to avoid overnight parking fees. This can be especially convenient if you only need a car for specific day trips.


Is It Safe to Park in Waikiki and Honolulu?

Safety is always a concern when parking in urban areas. While both Waikiki and Honolulu are relatively safe, it’s essential to take precautions:

  • Remove Valuables: Never leave personal belongings visible inside your vehicle.
  • Use Secure Garages: Opt for parking garages with attendants or surveillance cameras if you’re leaving your car overnight.
  • Purchase Insurance: If you plan to leave your vehicle unattended for long periods, consider personal effects coverage as an add-on to your rental policy.

Should You Rent a Car for Your Entire Stay?

Advantages of Renting a Car:

  • Explore Beyond Waikiki: A car makes it easy to visit places like the North Shore, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Waimea Valley.
  • Convenience: Having a vehicle offers more flexibility, especially for families or travelers with multiple activities planned.

Disadvantages of Renting a Car:

  • Parking Costs: Between rental fees and overnight parking, the total cost can quickly add up.
  • Traffic: Honolulu experiences congestion during rush hours, particularly on weekdays.

Money-Saving Strategies for Car Rentals and Parking

If you’re on a budget, there are several ways to save on parking and rental fees:

  1. Rent a Car for Specific Days Only:
    • Plan your excursions around the days you rent a vehicle to avoid daily parking costs.
    • This strategy is common among cruise passengers who rent vehicles only while docked.
  2. Opt for Non-Airport Rentals:
    • Renting from non-airport locations can save you up to 22% in taxes and fees.
    • Many rental companies have offices in Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
  3. Use Public Transport or Ride-Sharing:
    • Honolulu’s bus system is extensive and inexpensive. Consider using it for shorter trips.
    • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

Navigating Parking in Waikiki and Honolulu

While parking in Waikiki and Honolulu can be challenging, knowing your options ahead of time helps you avoid unnecessary stress and costs. Whether you choose to rely on hotel parking, explore free street parking options, or rent a car strategically for certain days, there are ways to make your experience smoother. Always read posted signs to avoid fines, and consider safety when leaving your vehicle overnight.

By balancing your transportation needs with parking strategies, you’ll make the most of your visit to Oahu—without worrying about parking fees eating into your vacation budget.

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The Department of Transportation Services provides the following informational graphic.

parking tips