island hopping

[Grampa]

You aren't going to the Big Island. 

see....i told you needed help

[duccarlos]

Just ping Teddy.

[Grampa]

Just ping Teddy.

that'll get you a 10year  run in the pokey here in cali

[gojira]

Chiming in a bit late ... based on a visit a few years ago (and in other times past):

(1) Yes there is public bus service to and from the airport and the Waikiki area. The only downside is the distance as you'll take quite a while because of all the stops along the way. There may, however, be express service since Waikiki is an obviously popular destination.

(2) Direct Waikiki shuttles are another option.

(3) Your hotel/place of stay may have shuttle service.

(4) If walking is not an issue we used to the park the rental car overnights on the main drag next to the Ala Wai Canal because there wasn't any time limits (check to be sure these days with cash starved municipalities everywhere). We never worried about tickets knowing we'd be using it during the days. Alternatively, just rent the car as needed each day to bypass any need for overnight parking. Very common to do anywhere in Hawaii. BTW, I do recommend renting a car to drive around and take in each and any island. The sights, restaurants on the other sides of the islands, you name it. If on Maui see if you can drive a certain road for the 30 miles in less than 3 hours. 

(5) Bus service on the Big Island was rather spotty and infrequent. Maybe better now or during certain times of the day, but I wouldn't expect timeliness considering the distances between points such as Waikoloa and Kona (there's a reason why they have "Hawaiian Time" in their appointments).    To be honest and to maximize any short times of visit, rentals cars give you the best options and best flexibility.

Hope this helps.