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Many people say that renting a car in Hawaii is crucial, and even though it is possible to make your way around Hawaii with public transport, it is both more time efficient and convenient to rent a car. To illustrate this, over 80% of the visitors on the Big Island rents a car during their stay on the big Island!
Choosing what kind of car to rent - and from what company - is not always straightforward Choosing what kind of car to rent - and from what company - is not always straightforward. If you are traveling with a larger group, you might want to consider renting a minivan. If you want to do some heavy-duty exploring and want to go off the beaten track, a 4WD car is a good option. Or do you want to cruise around with your roof open? In that case, why not choose a wrangler (Jeep with detachable roof).
Go local for the best prizes!
The best way to find a good deal on a Hawaiian car rental if you book beforehand is to look for the local rental agencies Most of the Nations car rental services offer service at any of the two international airports (ITO - Hilo and KOA - Kona) on the Big Island. The best way to find a good deal on a Hawaiian car rental if you book beforehand is to look for the local rental agencies. Besides, why not go local? The island rental agencies have guaranteed discounts that are pre-negotiated, and if you are willing to be flexible about the exact details of the make and model, you’ll find the best rates searching among these businesses.
For example, hawaiidrive-o.com or carrentalinhawaii.com both offer discount rates on car rentals in the state of Hawaii.
Even better prizes for long term rentals
If you are staying for more than 30 days and want to rent a car on the west side (Waikoloa and Kona) of the Big Island, have a look at Big Island rent-a-car.
To Mauna Kea with your rental car
Most rental agencies do not allow you to take your car onto the really rough roads of Hawaii. In the case of a Hawaiian vacation, this is relevant if you want to go stargazing (the road to the summit of Mauna Kea between the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy and the telescopes on the summit is off limits), or want to drive your car to green sand beach.
If you want to drive up the mountain yourself (instead of joining a tour) you need a 4WD car, and the only 4WD drive rental agency on the island that allows their car to be taken that far up is Harpers Car Rentals. Consider double booking a 4WD from them next to your own rental car since this probably will be your cheapest option.
Don't get stranded, plan ahead!
On a final note, because Hawaii is an island state, there is a limited supply of rental vehicles on the Big Island. Special events such as the ironman marathon or the merry monarch festival frequently take up all available cars. Call ahead or make an early reservation if you don't want to be unpleasantly surprised upon arrival.
because Hawaii is an island state, there is a limited supply of rental vehicles on the Big Island. Special events frequently take up all available cars.
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