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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Waikoloa
Waikoloa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Waikoloa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Waikoloa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Waikoloa
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 Waikoloa?
Waikoloa, Hawaii, is a stunning destination offering beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and luxurious resorts. While there are shuttle services and taxis, renting a car provides the freedom to explore the Big Island at your own pace. Here's why a rental car is essential for your Waikoloa visit.
Explore Beyond the Resorts. With a rental car, you can easily access the island's diverse attractions, from Volcanoes National Park to the black sands of Punalu'u Beach. Discover hidden gems and local favourites beyond the tourist hotspots.
Convenience and Flexibility. Public transportation is limited in certain areas of the Big Island. Having a car allows you to set your own schedule and visit places that are difficult to reach by public transport, like Waipio Valley or Mauna Kea Observatory.
Maximise Your Time. The Big Island is vast, and driving distances can be significant. A rental car helps you make the most of your holiday by reducing travel time and allowing you to see more sights in a shorter period.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Waikoloa
Before renting a car in Waikoloa, it’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions. Knowing the rules and regulations ensures a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
Approximately 9.8 square miles
Population
Approximately 6,362 residents
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Ideal for
Exploring the Big Island
Rush Hours
Minimal traffic congestion compared to mainland cities
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage. Fuel policies vary, with many requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Waikoloa – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £24 / $30 / €27 per day
Classic:
from £16 / $20 / €18 per day
Executive:
from £32 / $40 / €36 per day
7 Seater:
from £36 / $45 / €41 per day
Automatic:
from £24 / $30 / €27 per day
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to March): Higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (April to May, September to November): Discounts and better availability
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Waikoloa?
Booking a car in Waikoloa involves several steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. Here’s how to do it:
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for solo travel or an SUV for family adventures.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Waikoloa
Waikoloa is a planned resort community on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and historical sites.
As part of the Kohala Coast, Waikoloa offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty. While the resort areas are easily walkable, renting a car provides the freedom to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of the Big Island. Driving in Waikoloa is generally straightforward, but it’s important to be aware of local traffic laws and parking regulations to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay (Waikoloa Beach)
A beautiful beach perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sunset views.
Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
An ancient site with over 1,200 petroglyphs carved into lava rocks.
Waikoloa Kings’ Shops and Queens’ MarketPlace
Shopping and dining destinations with local crafts and restaurants.
Where to Find Parking
Resort Parking
Most resorts offer ample parking for guests, often included in the resort fee.
Beach Parking
Public beach parks have designated parking areas, but they can fill up quickly during peak times.
Shopping Centre Parking
Free parking is available at the Waikoloa Kings’ Shops and Queens’ MarketPlace.
Gas Stations in Waikoloa
Convenient Locations
Several gas stations are located along Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (Highway 19) near Waikoloa.
Major Brands
Look for Shell, Chevron, and Aloha Petroleum stations.
Refuelling Tips
Fill up before heading to remote areas, as gas stations can be scarce.
Useful Tips for Visiting Waikoloa
Plan for Travel Times
Distances on the Big Island can be deceiving, so allow ample time for driving.
Stay Hydrated
The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water.
Respect Local Customs
Be mindful of Hawaiian culture and traditions.
Check Weather Conditions
Weather can vary significantly across the island, so check the forecast before setting out.
Key Transportation Hubs in Waikoloa
Airports
Kona International Airport (KOA)
Located approximately 20 miles south of Waikoloa, it is the primary airport serving the region.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Waikoloa?
Renting a car in Hawaii is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need
If you're from the United States, your standard licence is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country licence for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters
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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 Waikoloa 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.
Pretty chill place
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 05.12.2024
Pretty chill, really
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 28.04.2025
Waikoloa was a fantastic spontaneous getaway! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful beaches and stunning scenery.
Sarah Chen
Reviewed: 23.09.2024
So glad I returned to Waikoloa after all these years! Having a car was perfect for exploring the coast and all the hidden gems. Absolutely stunning.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 08.11.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 01.08.2025
Getting around was a breeze, met up with friends, and enjoyed the stunning scenery. Wonderful trip!
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 15.09.2024
Exploring Waikoloa was amazing; renting a car made it effortless. The resort shops felt a bit overpriced, though.
Amelia Lopez
Reviewed: 10.07.2025
Low-key paradise
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 24.11.2024