Jan 5, 2025
Written By: J.Couch
Taking the Blue Line Waikiki Trolley is a fantastic way to explore the southeastern coast of Oahu, offering stunning views and a relaxed pace for sightseeing. We decided to get out of Honolulu for a few hours and explore some more of the island. We caught the Blue Line tour at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue stop. We were able to purchase the tickets online and we just showed the driver our receipt on our phone. Very quick and easy to get going. This route is a scenic drive along the iconic Diamond Head and the breathtaking coastline that unfolds as we head toward the Sea Life Park. The trolley tour actually starts at 300 Royal Hawaiian Ave, Honolulu, HI but you can catch it from whichever stop is the closest. We departed from the Duke statue stop and started towards Diamond Head with a quick stop at the zoo and the aquarium. Our driver for the day was Deno and he grew up here in the area. He was very informative and was very accommodating. We passed through quaint neighborhoods and got a glimpse of Kapiolani Park, which is an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic if you have time. Past the aquarium, this stretch offers panoramic views of the ocean on one side and the lush, volcanic ridges of Diamond Head on the other.
We continued on, the trolley wind through the Kahala area, known for its luxurious mansions and upscale vibe. This part of the ride feels like a peek into Hawaii’s high-end living, and the trolley driver often shares fun tidbits about the area such as who has a home around there or who grew up in that area. I am sure the facts will be different depending on the driver.
One of the most captivating stops is at Halona Blowhole. Here, the trolley stopped briefly, allowing us to admire the powerful spray of water from the natural lava tube and the shimmering Sandy Beach below. On clear days, you can spot Molokai or Lanai in the distance. However, today it was too hazy to see them. The driver said it was due to vog, or the haze that comes from the volcano. This stop was a great stop for pictures.
As the trolley meanders along Kalanianaole Highway, the views of the turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs are breathtaking. The Makapu’u Lookout is another key point of interest, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the chance to see whales during the winter months. Unfortunately, the trolley does not stop here but you get a great view of the beach below, and no, we didn’t see any whales.
The Sea Life Park stop is the final destination, located near the base of the cliffs. The park itself is a family-friendly attraction with marine life exhibits, interactive programs, and entertaining shows. Whether or not you choose to visit the park, this area is also a great place to soak in the scenery, as it sits just a stone’s throw from the beach. We chose not to get off here and to just stay on the tour and ride back. Now is a good time to switch seats so that you get the ocean view on the ride back. The trolley retraces its path on the way back, giving us a second chance to enjoy the views and perhaps catch details we missed the first time. As we returned to Honolulu, we noticed how the landscape transitioned from the wild and rugged coastline to the more bustling cityscape. The Blue Line Waikiki Trolley is more than just a mode of transportation, it’s an experience. If you plan it correctly you can get off at a few of the stops and have about 40 minutes until the next trolley comes along. If you want to wait for that same driver it’s about a 2-hour wait for them to come back through. The open-air design of the trolley enhances the journey, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and breezes of Oahu. With friendly drivers who share interesting stories and facts along the way, it’s an excellent way to combine transportation with sightseeing.
Whether you’re heading to the Sea Life Park or just taking the ride for the views, the Blue Line is a must-do for visitors to Waikiki.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
