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Top destinations to rent a car in Hawaii

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Honolulu

Honolulu

What you need to know for your Hawaii car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Hawaii

Renting a car in Hawaii provides the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Waikiki Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and surf, and Pearl Harbor, which offers a glimpse into the state's military history. Honolulu Harbor is another scenic spot worth seeing, allowing you to take in beautiful views. The flexibility of having your own vehicle is particularly beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences across different locations.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore popular destinations such as Honolulu, which features not only Waikiki Beach but also the bustling Waikiki Beach Walk. Maui is another must-see, home to natural wonders like Haleakala National Park and Kamaole Beach Park. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or venturing solo, a rental car simplifies luggage management and allows you to create a travel itinerary that suits your interests and schedule. Overall, renting a car in Hawaii enhances your sightseeing experience and makes your trip more enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in Hawaii

  • Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for travelers in Hawaii, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the beautiful islands with ease. You’ll enjoy the comfort and flexibility it provides, perfect for managing your luggage while venturing to various attractions at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Another favored option, the Standard SUV also accommodates 5 travelers, but has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it a great fit for couples, families, or groups who want a comfortable ride while enjoying the scenic drives of Hawaii. With its ample space and versatility, you can easily navigate the island’s roads and manage your travel plans effortlessly.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car is an excellent option for larger groups or families, as it can accommodate 5 travelers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility allows for more luggage and gear, making it a favorite among those who prefer a little extra space. If you're traveling with family or friends, this car type ensures that everyone can travel comfortably while experiencing the beauty of Hawaii.

Where to stay in Hawaii

  • Honolulu: Honolulu is a vibrant city known for its outdoor, family, and beach experiences. Travelers can enjoy the famous Waikiki Beach, located conveniently for beach vacations. Nearby, Honolulu Harbor offers scenic views and additional beach activities. The Waikiki Beach Walk is perfect for those seeking outdoor experiences or romantic strolls. With numerous shopping areas and family-friendly attractions, Honolulu is an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
  • Kaanapali: Kaanapali is a charming village that provides a blend of beach, outdoor, and family experiences. Key attractions include Black Rock and Kaanapali Beach, both ideal for beach vacations. The picturesque Napili Bay offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore local shopping centers and enjoy a variety of food and drink options, including restaurants and breweries. Kaanapali's inviting atmosphere makes it an attractive destination for families and beach lovers alike.
  • Maui: Maui is a stunning island that captivates visitors with its beach, outdoor, and scenic offerings. The breathtaking Haleakala National Park is perfect for outdoor adventures and scenery exploration. Kamaole Beach Park is an excellent spot for beach vacations, while the Haleakala Crater offers unique scenic views that are not to be missed. Maui also features a range of shopping centers and dining options, including restaurants and breweries, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Hawaii

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you need. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most favorable. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an extra fee, but the added convenience may be worth the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help shield you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include lengthy road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Hawaii

The best time to rent a car in Hawaii is September, when prices and demand are both at their lowest. October and November also offer good value, with slightly low demand and prices. June through August see higher demand and slightly elevated prices, with July being the most expensive month of the year. February and March can also be busy, but they typically have moderate pricing compared to the peak summer months.

Find Hawaii Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Hawaii car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Hawaii, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Hawaii offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Hawaii car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Hawaii to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Hawaii airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Hawaii rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Hawaii airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Hawaii?
You can find cheap car rentals in Hawaii from $10 a day with Ace's economy 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Hawaii are picked up at the region's main gateway, Honolulu Airport (HNL). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Honolulu and Kaanapali, where rates can start from $10 a day if you pick up in Honolulu or Kaanapali. Suppliers such as Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Dollar Rent A Car operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Hawaii.
What are the best car rentals in Hawaii?
Car rentals across Hawaii offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise, broadly available in the region's main cities — Kihei, Honolulu, and Kaanapali. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Hawaii.

What are the best car rental companies in Hawaii?
For car rentals across Hawaii, providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Dollar Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Kihei, Honolulu, and Kaanapali. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Honolulu Airport (HNL) for exploring Hawaii?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Honolulu Airport (HNL) for exploring Hawaii. Providers including Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. Honolulu Airport (HNL) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Kihei to Kaanapali.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Hawaii?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Hawaii, including in Kihei and Honolulu. Sixt offers electric from $10 a day and hybrid options from $10 a day, while Alamo Rent A Car also provides hybrid vehicles from $10 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Hawaii?
For luxury car rentals across Hawaii, Sixt offers fullsize convertible cars from $29 a day (and standard elite SUV from $18), while Enterprise and Avis add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Kihei and Honolulu. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Hawaii.
What are the best car rentals in Hawaii for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Hawaii, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Kihei to Honolulu:
  • Dollar Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $11 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: mini passenger van from $29 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $20 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Hawaii.

What are the best car rentals in Hawaii for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Hawaii for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Kihei and Honolulu:
  • Economy car, from $13 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $12 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Hawaii.

What are the best car rentals in Hawaii for couples?
The best car rentals in Hawaii for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Kihei and Honolulu:
  • Midsize car, from $11 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $14 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a fullsize convertible — fits up to 2 large suitcases — for scenic drives around Hawaii. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Hawaii.

What are the closest airports to Hawaii for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Hawaii offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Honolulu Airport (HNL)
  • Kahului Airport (OGG)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Hawaii by rental car?
From Hawaii, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Honolulu hub include:
  • Kahana Beach, Hawaii, United States of America, approximately 1 mile away
  • Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort, Kaanapali, Hawaii, United States of America, approximately 2 miles away
  • Black Rock, Kaanapali, Hawaii, United States of America, approximately 2 miles away
Time your trip around events like Aloha Festivals - Annual Waikiki Ho'olaule'a. With cities like Kihei and Kaanapali also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Hawaii.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Hawaii?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Hawaii. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Hawaii?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Hawaii?
Budget car rental in Hawaii can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Hawaii?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Hawaii. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Hawaii car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Hawaii?
To rent a car in Hawaii, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Hawaii car rental?
If you need to cancel your Hawaii car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation