Hawaii Car Rentals & Cheap Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in Hawaii

Renting a car in Hawaii offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful islands at your own pace. With a car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it convenient for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. You can drive to iconic attractions such as Waikiki Beach, known for its stunning shoreline, and Pearl Harbor, a significant cultural site. Both of these locations are easily accessible from various parts of Hawaii. Additionally, Honolulu, a vibrant city featuring Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Harbor, is best explored by car, allowing you to experience the local scenery and culture thoroughly. If you venture to Maui, a high-level region, you can visit breathtaking spots like Haleakala National Park and Kamaole Beach Park with ease. Having a rental car ensures you can visit popular destinations such as Waikiki and the surrounding areas without the constraints of public transport schedules. Whether you are looking for adventure, scenic views, or cultural experiences, a rental car enhances your Hawaiian getaway, providing comfort and convenience along the way.

Most popular car rentals in Hawaii

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is a fantastic choice for families or groups of up to 5 travellers. It offers ample space for luggage, accommodating up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for those who need flexibility with their travel plans, allowing you to easily manage your belongings while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is another popular choice, also catering to groups of 5 travellers. It can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a balance between space and manoeuvrability. This vehicle type provides a comfortable ride while ensuring you have enough room for your luggage, enabling you to enjoy your Hawaiian adventure without any hassle.
• Standard SUV: If you are travelling with up to 5 people and require a vehicle that offers a bit more space, the Standard SUV is a great option. It accommodates up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups. With its combination of comfort and capacity, this SUV allows you to navigate both urban and rural areas of Hawaii with ease, ensuring a pleasant driving experience during your trip.

Where to stay in Hawaii

• Honolulu: Honolulu is a vibrant city known for its outdoor, family, and beach experiences. Travellers can enjoy popular attractions such as Waikiki Beach, which is ideal for a beach holiday, and Honolulu Harbor, perfect for those looking to enjoy beautiful scenery. The Waikiki Beach Walk esplanade offers a lovely setting for outdoor activities and family time. With shopping centres and areas nearby, Honolulu provides a well-rounded experience for visitors.
• Kaanapali: Kaanapali is a charming village that highlights beach, outdoor, and family experiences. Its beautiful beaches, including the renowned Kaanapali Beach and Black Rock, make it a great destination for beach lovers. Visitors can explore Napili Bay for stunning scenery and enjoy local food and drink options, such as breweries and restaurants. Kaanapali is also home to golf venues and shopping centres, making it a delightful spot for tourists.
• Maui: Maui, an enchanting island, is celebrated for its beach, outdoor, and scenic experiences. Key attractions include Haleakala National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures, and Kamaole Beach Park, which is well-suited for beach holidays. The Haleakala Crater offers breathtaking views, ideal for those seeking picturesque landscapes. With various golf courses and shopping centres available, Maui is an excellent choice for travellers looking to explore the beauty of Hawaii.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Hawaii

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for extra space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance increases your chances of obtaining lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years of age may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Hawaii

The best value period to rent a car in Hawaii is November, when prices are lower and demand is steady. September and October also offer good options, with slightly low prices and average demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by high demand. June and early August follow closely, showing slightly high prices and busy rental conditions. January remains another peak period, as demand is high, keeping prices at an average level.