Hawaii Car Rental Tips for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time renting a car in Hawaii, welcome to one of the best ways to explore the islands! Whether you're headed to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to discover beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and hidden gems at your own pace.

Why Renting a Car in Hawaii is Worth It

Public transportation is limited in most areas, and taxis or rideshares can get expensive quickly. A rental car gives you the flexibility to follow your own schedule and visit remote or less-touristy spots that tours often skip.

Best Places to Pick Up Your Car

• Oahu: Honolulu Airport (HNL) or Waikiki area
• Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG)
• Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)
• Big Island: Kona (KOA) or Hilo (ITO) Airports

Tips for a Smooth First-Time Rental

• Book your rental car early, especially for summer and holiday seasons.
• Check your credit card or personal auto insurance to avoid paying for unnecessary extras.
• Stick with a vehicle suited to your island - compact for cities, SUV for rugged roads.
• Inspect the vehicle for scratches or damage before driving off the lot.
• Keep a printed copy of your reservation, just in case of connectivity issues.

Driving in Hawaii: What to Know

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Speed limits are strictly enforced - especially in residential and rural areas.
• It’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless it’s hands-free.
• Many roads are one-lane or winding, so drive with aloha and yield to local traffic.

Hawaii Car Rental Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Rent from airport locations for the most inventory and convenience - especially on Oahu and Maui.
• Choose a compact car if you’re staying in Honolulu or Waikiki, where parking is tight and traffic is frequent.
• If you're planning to drive scenic routes like the Road to Hana or Mauna Kea Access Road, consider an SUV for comfort and safety.
• Always review your rental agreement for mileage restrictions, fuel policies, and return procedures.
• Make sure you know how to use Hawaii’s payment apps for parking meters, especially in Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
• Ask your hotel if they charge overnight parking fees - some rates exceed $50 per night in Waikiki.
• Return your vehicle on time to avoid extra day charges. Most agencies allow a short grace period, but it varies.
• Use navigation apps with offline maps (like Google Maps or Maps.me) if you're visiting areas with weak signal, such as parts of Kauai and Big Island.

Island-Specific Rental Advice

On Maui and the Big Island, consider an SUV for better comfort and capability when driving through mountainous or off-the-beaten-path areas. On Oahu and Kauai, a smaller car might be better for urban parking and fuel efficiency.