Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Kailua-Kona
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Kailua-Kona
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Kailua-Kona
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Kailua-Kona
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. While tours and shuttles are available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore this stunning region at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, scenic drives, and create unforgettable memories.
Unrestricted Exploration: A rental car allows you to venture beyond the typical tourist spots. Visit secluded beaches, coffee plantations, and historical sites that are difficult to reach by public transportation.
Personalized Itinerary: Tailor your vacation to your specific interests. Whether you're into snorkeling, hiking, or simply relaxing on the beach, a car gives you the flexibility to do what you want, when you want.
Convenience and Comfort: Traveling with family or carrying gear? A rental car provides ample space and comfort, making your journey more enjoyable. No more waiting for buses or lugging your belongings around.
Before renting a car in Kailua-Kona, familiarize yourself with the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Understanding the rules and regulations will help you avoid unexpected charges and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
Area
Approximately 103.3 square miles
Population
Around 12,000 residents
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Ideal for
Exploring the Big Island
Rush Hours
Limited congestion, primarily during morning and evening commutes
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 additional young driver fees.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is typically required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies also differ, so be sure to understand the requirements for returning the car with the correct fuel level.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS navigation and child seats.
Average economy-class car rentals in Kailua-Kona typically start from £25 / $31 / €30 per day.
Business:
from £45 / $56 / €54 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Executive:
from £55 / $69 / €66 per day
7 Seater:
from £65 / $81 / €78 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
SUV:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Peak season (December to March): Experiences higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (April to November): Often comes with 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.
Booking a car in Kailua-Kona is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you secure the best rental for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs and budget.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and other important details.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and availability by booking your car well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental vehicle.
Kailua-Kona offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Exploring the area by car allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy the freedom to create your own itinerary.
As a popular tourist destination on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kailua-Kona is known for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and coffee plantations. Renting a car is highly recommended to fully explore the diverse landscapes and attractions. While there are limited public transportation options, having your own vehicle provides the flexibility to visit remote locations and experience the true essence of the island.
Top Attractions to Discover
Kona Coffee Farms
Visit local coffee farms and learn about the process of coffee cultivation.
Historic Kailua Village
Explore the charming village with its shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
Beaches and Snorkeling Spots
Discover beautiful beaches like Magic Sands Beach and Kahalu'u Beach Park, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Lots
Several public parking lots are available in Kailua Village.
Street Parking
Limited street parking is available, but be sure to check for time restrictions.
Hotel Parking
Most hotels offer parking for their guests.
Gas Stations in Kailua-Kona
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are conveniently located throughout Kailua-Kona.
Major Brands
Find major brands like Chevron, Shell, and Aloha Petroleum.
24-Hour Availability
Some gas stations offer 24-hour service.
Useful Tips for Visiting Kailua-Kona
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially in Kailua Village.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors.
Wear Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the strong Hawaiian sun.
Respect Local Culture
Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Airports
Kona International Airport (KOA)
Located approximately 7 miles north of Kailua-Kona, serving domestic and international flights.
Renting a car in Kailua-Kona is a relatively simple process, but it's essential to have the necessary documents and meet the requirements. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need to rent a car.
A valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card is needed for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
You'll need proof of insurance. Check if your current auto insurance policy covers rental cars, or consider purchasing additional coverage from the rental company.
This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Kailua-Kona as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty laid-back, really.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 03.01.2025
Absolutely loved exploring Kona! Getting a car was so smart; it made visiting all the beaches and sights a breeze. The scenery was breathtaking.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 28.03.2025
Pretty chill place
Maya Wilson
Reviewed: 20.02.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Kevin Brown
Reviewed: 20.05.2025
Pretty chill, overall
Mike Johnson
Reviewed: 05.03.2025
Peaceful Kona coast escape! Getting around was a breeze, and the beaches were stunning.
David Lee
Reviewed: 22.12.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 02.02.2025
Low-key paradise, really.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 11.01.2025
Relaxing, good vibes
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.06.2025
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Kailua-Kona was even better than I remembered! So much to explore, and having a car made it perfect. Years later, it's still magical.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 22.08.2024