Kaua‘i Bus launches new Tap-and-Ride System
Published on May 14, 2025
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Bus has introduced a new Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) system powered by Masabi’s Justride open platform, available through the Kaua‘i Bus mobile app and the newly launched Holomua smartcard. Building on the successful mobile ticketing launch just four months ago, this latest phase allows passengers to tap and ride—offering a simpler, more flexible, and cost-effective way to travel the island.
Riders can now download the Kaua‘i Bus app or pick up a Holomua card to start tapping and riding. Open Payments, which will enable passengers to pay directly with contactless bank cards or mobile wallets, is scheduled to launch in late 2025.
With the new ABT system, riders no longer need to pre-purchase tickets or choose a fare in advance. Instead, they can use the app or smartcard to tap and board, with the system automatically calculating and deducting the lowest applicable fare through fare capping. This upgrade is part of a broader plan to modernize Kaua‘i’s public transit fare system, benefiting both residents and visitors and paving the way for future enhancements like Open Payments.
“This launch is a major step forward in our mission to make public transportation on Kaua‘i easier, more accessible, and more modern,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Mahalo to our team with the Kaua‘i Bus and Masabi for launching this service for our community.”
Riders can manage their transit accounts via the Kaua‘i Bus app or an online portal, where they can add funds and track usage. The ABT system ensures that passengers always receive the best value for their trips:
- Mainline Single Ride: Adult $2.00 / Reduced Fare $1.00
- Day Pass: Adult $5.00 / Reduced Fare $2.50
- Monthly Fare Cap: Adult $50.00 / Reduced Fare $25.00
The ABT system reduces the need to carry cash or plan fares in advance, making bus travel easier for both locals and tourists. Riders who prefer to pay with cash can load funds onto their account at select retail locations or at the Kaua‘i Bus office. The Holomua smartcard is especially useful for riders without smartphones who still want to take advantage of digital fare benefits.
“We’re delighted to deepen our partnership with The Kauaʻi Bus supporting the roll out Account-Based Ticketing and bringing smarter, more efficient payment options to riders,” said Brian Zanghi, CEO of Masabi. “Kauaʻi’s approach, starting with mobile ticketing and expanding to ABT, is a powerful example of how transit systems can evolve and transform fare collection in phases to deliver meaningful improvements for their communities.”
For more information about The Kaua‘i Bus and its eTicketing system, visit www.kauai.gov/transportation.
To view all bus schedules, visit www.kauai.gov/BusSchedules.
For additional assistance, call 808-246-8110 or visit The Kaua‘i Bus Facebook page at www.facebook.com/thekauaibus.
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