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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Hilo
Hilo
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Hilo
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Hilo
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Hilo
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Hilo?
Hilo, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a captivating destination filled with natural wonders and cultural treasures. While guided tours are available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore this diverse landscape at your own pace.
Explore Volcanic National Park: With a rental car, you can easily access the dramatic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, witnessing active volcanoes and unique geological formations.
Discover Waterfalls and Lush Rainforests: Drive along the scenic routes to discover hidden waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, immersing yourself in the island's rich rainforests.
Visit Local Farms and Markets: A car allows you to venture beyond the city centre to explore local farms, farmers' markets, and coffee plantations, experiencing the authentic flavours of the Big Island.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Hilo
Before booking a rental car in Hilo, understand the standard rental terms to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Familiarise yourself with age requirements, licensing, insurance, and other potential fees.
Area
Approximately 58.4 square miles (151.3 square kilometres)
Population
Around 45,000 residents
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), UTC-10
Ideal for
Exploring natural attractions and scenic routes
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during morning and evening commutes
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Hilo require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors should have their domestic licence and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP).
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance. Additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) may provide extra protection. A security deposit is usually required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can be unlimited or restricted. Fuel policies often require returning the car with the same fuel level as when picked up to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, additional drivers, or one-way rentals.
Car Rental Prices in Hilo – How Much Does It Cost?
Discover the estimated daily prices for renting a car in Hilo.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to March): Prices increase by 20-30% due to higher tourist volume.
Low season (April to November): Discounts are often available during these months.
Booking in advance and comparing rental options can help you find the best deals.
How to Book a Car in Hilo?
Follow these steps to book your rental car in Hilo smoothly.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best rental deals that suit your travel dates and car preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a car that fits your needs, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the island's varied terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to prevent unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better prices and vehicle availability by booking well ahead of your trip, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your valid driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when you collect your rental vehicle.
General Information About Hilo
Hilo, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a charming town known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Driving in Hilo allows you to easily access its numerous attractions and scenic routes.
As the largest settlement on the Big Island, Hilo is a gateway to natural wonders such as Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Akaka Falls. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the island's diverse landscapes and reaching destinations outside the main town area. While Hilo's traffic is generally manageable, it's useful to be aware of local driving conditions and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Volcanoes National Park
Witness active volcanoes and unique geological formations.
Rainbow Falls
A beautiful waterfall known for its rainbows.
Akaka Falls
A stunning cascade surrounded by lush rainforest.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Lots
Several parking lots are available in downtown Hilo.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, with varying time limits.
Park & Ride
Limited park-and-ride options are available; check local transport information for locations.
Gas Stations in Hilo
Main Fuel Chains
Look for brands like Shell, Chevron, and Aloha Petroleum.
Refuelling Tips
Gas stations are conveniently located along main roads; plan refills according to your travel route.
Use Navigation Apps
Use Google Maps or similar apps to find the nearest gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Hilo
Allow Extra Travel Time
Roads are generally good, but allow extra time to account for scenic stops and potential traffic.
Stay Alert for Pedestrians
Be mindful of pedestrians, especially in the downtown area and near attractions.
Plan for Weather
Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including rain, especially in the rainforest areas.
Respect Local Customs
Drive responsibly and respectfully in accordance with local Hawaiian customs and traditions.
Key Transportation Hubs in Hilo
Airports
Hilo International Airport (ITO)
The main airport serving the Big Island's eastern side.
Bus Stations
Hilo Downtown Bus Terminal
The central bus hub for local transport.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Hilo?
Ensure you have all necessary documents before picking up your rental car.
A valid licence from your country of residence is required. International visitors may need an IDP.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Younger drivers may face additional fees.
A credit or debit card in the renter’s name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of government-issued identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Hilo as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Hilo was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy. We squeezed so much into our weekend – waterfalls, volcano views, and delicious food. Highly recommend!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 02.06.2025
Hilo's charm was amazing, but the weekend was too short. The coffee was weak.
Jessica Lee
Reviewed: 30.04.2025
Summer in Hilo was great, exploring with our rental car. The farmers market was a bit underwhelming, though.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 10.06.2025
Absolutely loved Hilo! Getting around with a car was a breeze during our summer vacation. So much to see and do, we'll definitely be back.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 06.07.2025
Hilo exceeded expectations! I'd heard great things, and having a car made exploring so much easier. The scenery was breathtaking.
Evelyn Carter
Reviewed: 18.02.2025
Pretty chill, tbh
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 20.08.2025