$38 Car Rental Downtown Honolulu, HI

These Downtown Honolulu insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 1, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Honolulu

Renting a car in Downtown Honolulu provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy beach-related experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit key sites such as the Aloha Tower and Iolani Palace, both located within Downtown Honolulu.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to reach nearby destinations. Waikiki Beach, famous for its beautiful shoreline, is only 3 miles away, while the vibrant neighborhood of Kaka'ako is less than 1 mile from Downtown. You can also venture to Waikiki, just 2 miles away, where you can explore more beaches, Diamond Head, and the lively Waikiki Beach Walk. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Downtown Honolulu, allowing you to fully enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Honolulu

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for those traveling in groups of up to 5 people. With the ability to accommodate up to 3 large suitcases, it is perfect for couples or families looking to explore Downtown Honolulu comfortably. This option offers a balance of space and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate the city’s streets while providing ample room for your luggage.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the Fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious option is perfect for those who require extra room for luggage and gear during their adventures around Downtown Honolulu. With its generous capacity, you can embark on your journey without feeling cramped, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone.
• Standard Convertible: The Standard Convertible is a stylish option for up to 4 travelers, offering the ability to carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples or business travelers looking to add a touch of fun to their trip. Enjoy the open-air experience while driving through the scenic streets of Downtown Honolulu, making every moment feel special as you explore the area.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Honolulu

• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations situated less than 1 mile away from Downtown Honolulu, Enterprise provides excellent convenience for travelers. Known for its friendly service, Enterprise boasts an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10, ensuring a pleasant rental experience. The most popular vehicles booked through this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize cars, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your travel needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Located 2 miles from Downtown Honolulu, Thrifty Car Rental offers a streamlined service for those seeking a reliable vehicle. With a focus on Midsize and Compact cars, this supplier caters to travelers looking for efficient options at competitive prices. While it has one rental location, Thrifty ensures a straightforward process for anyone needing a car to explore the beautiful surroundings of Honolulu.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is conveniently positioned 2 miles away from Downtown Honolulu, making it accessible for tourists. This supplier is particularly popular for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, providing options for families or groups who want extra space. Alamo is known for its customer-friendly policies, ensuring a smooth rental experience as you venture through the stunning landscapes of Hawaii.

Where to stay around Downtown Honolulu

• Downtown Honolulu: As the heart of Honolulu, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to shopping areas and local landmarks. Travelers can explore nearby attractions such as Honolulu Harbor, perfect for enjoying scenic views. With a variety of dining options available, Downtown is an ideal base for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the city's offerings.
• Waikiki: Located 2 miles away from Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki is a lively neighborhood known for its stunning beach and rich outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the famous Waikiki Beach, perfect for a beach vacation, along with the scenic Diamond Head volcano for adventure seekers. Waikiki also features shopping centers and dining options, making it a family-friendly destination.
• South O'ahu: Situated 4 miles from Downtown Honolulu, South O'ahu is renowned for its beautiful beaches and outdoor experiences. Travelers can visit the well-known Waikiki Beach and explore the picturesque Waikiki Beach Walk. For those seeking adventure, Diamond Head offers stunning views and outdoor activities, making South O'ahu a great choice for families and beach lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Honolulu

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters older than 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, indicating you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road excursions, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Honolulu

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Honolulu is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderately low. May can also be a great option, as it offers slightly low prices with average demand. However, July is the most expensive month, often accompanied by high demand and elevated rental rates. June and August also see slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	73.8°F (23.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average