Are you planing a trip to Oahu and will be renting a car? Find out the best places to find parking in Waikiki so you won’t have to stress about it later.
This list of where to find parking in Waikiki, Hawaii, was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Worried about parking in Waikiki – where to park and the cost?
I know the struggle of trying to find a spot in Waikiki – it can be hectic! That’s why I put together this guide with all the best places to park, depending on what you’re looking for.
So whether you’re staying in Waikiki or just visiting for the day, you won’t have to worry about where to leave your car.
These spots are close to the action and will make your visit much more enjoyable.
Use my guide to save yourself the hassle and stress of finding a parking spot. It includes information on where to find free parking, paid parking, and even valet parking. You won’t regret it!
Waikiki overnight parking garage rates can vary depending on location, but I’ll show you the most family-friendly and affordable options available for visitors.
With my experience traveling the islands, I’ve put together my top recommendations for where to park in Waikiki.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Waikiki Parking FAQ
Many meters now accept credit and debit card payments and are compatible with the new “Park Smarter” mobile app. However, it’s still smart to carry some cash and coins just in case, especially for older or unattended lots.
If you plan to rent a car and have a handicapped parking placard, bring it with you! In Hawaii, if you have a valid handicap parking placard, you can generally park for free at parking meters and are typically exempt from time limits in metered spaces, unless a specific local ordinance applies.
Don’t honk your horn unless there’s an emergency. Also, merging is casual on the roads in Hawaii. Expect cars to merge wherever there’s a space. You’re expected to let others merge in front of you, and they’ll allow you to merge as well! Be aware that due to recent local ordinances, city lots with attendants may no longer offer free parking. Always double-check posted signage and check real-time updates via the Park Smarter app when possible.
Find the Best Waikiki Parking
Parking in Waikiki can be pretty expensive. Like any large city, parking spots are a commodity.
If you prefer not to pay for a rental car plus the parking fees, you could always take the Waikiki Trolley. This service winds through all of Waikiki. Or you can use car services and Uber.
However, the freedom of having a car is priceless, especially when you’re traveling with children. To give you the best experience with parking in Waikiki, I’ve put together a list that will make parking easier.
It’s certainly possible to find free parking in Waikiki, but you have to know where to look!
Public parking in Honolulu is similar to other big cities, so I’ll give you the rundown of what to look out for. If you need overnight parking in Waikiki, I’ll cover that as well. Finally, I’ll also go over where to find parking near Waikiki beaches.
Keep reading for all my suggestions on where to find the best parking in Waikiki!
Free Parking in Waikiki
Okay, this is one Hawaii budget hack you can do!
During peak tourism season in Honolulu (November through April), Waikiki public parking lots and unmetered streets stay quite packed. Locals and tourists alike utilize this parking, making it consistently challenging to find free parking near Waikiki, including on weekends.
I’ll go over both free lots and free street parking so you know what to expect.
Free Parking Lots in Waikiki
Enjoy quality shopping at Ala Moana Center on the west side of Waikiki. This sprawling 4-level mall has all the big stores you love. This is also a great place to find parking in Waikiki if you’re heading to Kahanamoku Beach.
The lot is free for up to 6 hours. Just check the signs so you don’t park there during restricted hours.
Just across the street from the shopping center is Ala Moana Beach Park. They have a lot where you can park for free between 4 AM and 10 PM. You just can’t park there overnight.
If you’re headed to the famous Honolulu Zoo, Kapi’olani Park, or even Diamond Head, there’s a great free central lot. Check out the Waikiki Shell parking lot on Monsarrat Avenue. While it’s a large lot where you’re likely to find a spot, be aware that parking hours are restricted, and it is not available 24 hours a day.
This lot generally allows overnight parking but may close during special events, so always confirm with posted signage or online updates before parking.
Free Street Parking in Waikiki
For your best chances of free parking in Honolulu, head to a public park. There’s a parking lot at Ala Moana Beach Park on the west side of Waikiki. You can park here during the day, but keep in mind that this area is very busy on the weekends and spots can be hard to find.
You’ll find free street parking 24 hours a day along Ala Wai Boulevard, which runs beside Ala Wai Canal. However, you can’t park here during street cleaning on weekday mornings (usually 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM).
These hours are strictly enforced and tow-away zones are common. Pay attention to street signs and make sure you’re parking in allowed areas.
A few blocks from the sand beaches of Waikiki Bay is Wai Nani Way. You’ll find free parking 24 hours a day closer to the Diamond Head side. Consider looking here if you’re heading to the zoo or the beach. It’s a relatively longer stroll to tourist spots for Waikiki, but it’s a location to keep in mind if you’re here during a busy day.
Kalakaua Avenue and Monsarrat Avenue may offer free parking during off-peak hours or Sundays but are metered during business hours. Always verify current restrictions using posted signage or the Park Smarter app.
The Diamond Head Beach portion of Diamond Head Road is free to park along between 5 AM and 10 PM if you can find a spot. You have to wind down the road a bit, but it’s worth it if you can find parking.
Keep in mind that some of these locations are within walking distance of popular family attractions and Waikiki beaches, making them convenient even if they’re a few blocks away.
Metered Street Parking
For more public parking in Waikiki, don’t rule out metered spots. Waikiki parking meters can vary in price and time allowances. But depending on your plans, they can be really convenient.
Metered rates have increased slightly and now average around $1.50–$1.75 per hour, with most allowing up to 2 hours from 6 AM to 10 PM.
Honolulu street parking meters typically do not require payment outside of designated hours, and usually all day on Sundays.
While this can offer some convenience, always thoroughly check all posted signs for specific parking rules, especially if considering it for overnight parking, as other restrictions like street cleaning or time limits may still apply, even on Sundays.
Some meters restrict the hours vehicles are allowed to park, especially overnight, so it’s important to double-check posted regulations.
For metered spots, I suggest heading to Kalakaua Avenue, which stretches east to west across the length of Waikiki. Just like Diamond Head Road, portions of this main thoroughfare also have many metered spots.
Many meters are now equipped with 4G technology and accept credit/debit cards or mobile payments via the Park Smarter app, making it easier to pay without cash.
If you’re making short stops or heading to shops/restaurants, some metered zones even offer validation through nearby businesses.
Permit Parking Lots
When you’re looking for where to find parking in Waikiki, a paid lot allows you a base to return to. Lots with attendants offer more security, and they tend to be cheaper than garages.
One of the best permit lots on the west side is the Ala Wai Boat Harbor parking lot. If you’re looking for cheap parking in Waikiki, this one’s free during the day! Just be aware that there’s a 6-hour limit. They also have an overnight option for only $1 per hour, which is a great option if you’re staying on this side of the neighborhood.
Be mindful that if overnight parking vehicles exceed posted time limits without payment or move-out, they could be ticketed or even towed.
Also on the west side of Waikiki is Fort DeRussy, which is a great location to enjoy the park or the beach, conveniently located between the International Marketplace Mall and the Ala Moana Center.
The Fort DeRussy parking lot, located at Kalia Road on the east side of the park (often associated with the Hale Koa Hotel parking garage), has an hourly rate or a 24-hour rate of around $36. This lot currently offers 6-hour free parking in designated stalls, which makes it a rare free option during the day near central Waikiki. Always verify posted stall rules before leaving your vehicle.
While it’s a military ground, the general public parking rates typically apply, and there isn’t a ‘first-time discount’ simply for presenting a military ID, unless you are a hotel guest or utilizing specific on-base services.
Another great option is the large Waikiki Zoo parking lot near Diamond Head. You don’t actually have to go to the zoo to use the parking lot, and you only pay $1.50 an hour. Just keep in mind that there’s a 4-hour limit. Time limits are enforced, and vehicles overstaying without payment are subject to citation or towing.
Some lots will considered abandoned any vehicle left beyond posted limits, particularly if no permit or payment is on file.
As part of recent changes, some city-operated lots may now charge a fee where attendants are present, even if they were formerly free. Check signage or the Park Smarter app for current rates.
Parking Garages in Waikiki
When it comes to Waikiki parking garages, you’re paying for the security and attendance. If you use a valet lot, you’ll be paying a higher rate than you would for self-parking. While you won’t find cheap Waikiki parking in a garage, there are a lot of perks to using a garage.
First, there are garages conveniently scattered throughout the area. It’s really about what features you’re looking for in a garage.
Most hotels in Waikiki have on-site parking garages with hourly and daily rates. Some offer restaurant validation, so check with the front desk or hostess if you’re dining in.
Many garage facilities also have signage indicating the lot reopens at a certain hour if temporarily closed for maintenance, cleaning, or events.
Most of them don’t have in-out privileges. If you’re paying for 12 hours, don’t expect to use your car during that time. If you just need overnight parking and can’t find a lot, you’ll definitely find a garage that’s open 24 hours!
Most hotel garages now charge $30–$60+ per night for self-parking, with valet options often priced even higher. Public garages may offer lower rates but usually require a short walk.
Park at a Shopping Center
You might be coming to Waikiki to take advantage of all the luxury shopping centers. A great way to get a deal on parking is to use a shopping center garage. With proof of purchase from the center’s shops, you get a discounted rate!
Use this parking option if you need parking for the day only. There’s usually a time limit, and overnight parking vehicles are typically not permitted.
For example, the Royal Hawaiian Center offers complimentary 2-hour parking with additional hours at a discounted rate. You have to show a receipt from a center store or restaurant. Otherwise, it’s a standard $6 per hour to park there for the day. When it comes to Waikiki parking rates, this is a great deal!
The International Marketplace Shopping Mall is also a good place to park for a decent rate. You can park here if you’re going to Waikiki Beach. The early bird special is only $12 if you’re in before 9 AM and out before 6 PM. Otherwise, it’s $3 an hour with validation from one of the mall shops.
If you’re unsure whether validation applies, just ask a cashier or security desk at the store. They can confirm any parking validations or restrictions.
Update: As of February 1, 2025, the International Market Place parking office no longer accepts cash. Pay stations still accept cash, but it’s recommended to bring a card just in case. A minimum $25 purchase is now required for parking validation.
Find an Overnight Garage
For longer-term parking, I suggest the Waikiki Banyan Parking Garage on Kuhio Avenue. It allows you to come and go as you please, which is hard to find! The daily rate is $27 or $125 for the week.
You can find a lot of overnight parking in Hawaii at one of the many resorts or condo buildings near the beach! These garages are great if you want to pay a standard fee for 24 hours’ worth of parking. You’ll find this kind of parking garage at locations like:
- Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
- Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Waikiki
These types of locations offer a variety of rates. There’s often one rate for guest parking and another for public parking. Some garages might offer a day rate and a separate overnight rate. Some are valet only. Just check the signs outside the garage for all the information you need.
Waikiki Beach Parking
Parking at Waikiki beaches varies widely. Some have free lots while others will require you to look for paid parking. The following are my recommendations for where to find parking in Waikiki close to each beach. A lot of the locations we’ve gone over already.
Seaside Ave is also worth considering—this side street runs parallel to Kalakaua Avenue and offers several access points to both parking lots and garages tucked behind the main beachfront buildings.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Park at Ala Moana Beach Park near Waikiki for free during the day. You could also park at the Ala Moana Center parking lot for free. Park here for the Kahanamoku Beach, as well.
Fort Derussy Beach Park
Use their paid parking lot at Kalia Road, on the park’s east side.
Note: 6-hour free parking is available in some stalls during the day.
Waikiki Beach
I recommend parking at the International Marketplace Shopping Mall and walking down to the beach. There isn’t any public parking in Waikiki Beach. All parking will require you to pay and walk a few blocks. But it’s an easy walk!
Kuhio Beach
Park at the Waikiki Banyan parking garage, which is only a few blocks away.
Kapiolani Beach Park
Both Queens Beach and Kaimana Beach are also adjacent to Kapiolani Beach Park. For access to all 3, look for parking on Monsarrat Avenue for free. You can also look for Kalakaua Avenue for both free and metered parking.
Diamond Head Beach Park
Park along Diamond Head Road. It may take some searching, but this is the only parking available that’s not a walk. It’s worth it for the view!
Always check for temporary closures or event-related restrictions, especially around the Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell and Kapiolani Park, which can affect nearby parking availability.
The Best Places to Find Parking in Waikiki
When it comes to finding parking in Waikiki, you have options. Honolulu is tourist-friendly! There’s free street parking, lots, metered parking, paid lots, and garages. It all depends on what your family needs during your vacation to Waikiki.
If you accidentally leave your vehicle in a lot past permitted hours without payment, be aware that it may be considered abandoned, and towing may occur at the owner’s expense.
Waikiki’s parking landscape continues to evolve with infrastructure upgrades, such as the “Complete Streets” projects on Ala Wai Boulevard, Kuhio Avenue, and Kalakaua Avenue. These may temporarily affect traffic and available parking areas, so it’s important to stay informed by checking local alerts or using apps like Park Smarter.
While hotel parking remains the most convenient option, it’s also the most expensive—often ranging from $30 to $60 or more per night. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer free street parking, especially on Ala Wai Boulevard or near Kapiolani Park, but must be diligent about checking signage for time restrictions and street cleaning hours.
For overnight or long-term stays, affordable and popular options include the Waikiki Banyan Garage and Ala Wai Boat Harbor, both offering better rates than most hotels and public garages—so long as you’re comfortable walking a few blocks to your destination.
If you’d rather avoid the hassle of parking altogether, car-sharing services like Hui Car Share include free parking at their designated stations and can be a practical alternative for getting around Waikiki.
For quick errands or shorter visits, metered parking is still a reliable option—especially now that most meters support credit card payments and mobile transactions via the Park Smarter app.
In short, the best parking in Waikiki depends on your priorities: budget, convenience, or flexibility. With a little planning and the latest tools, navigating Waikiki’s parking scene can be manageable—even during busy travel seasons.