Big Island Rental Cars

Rental Cars

Rental Cars on the Big Island

For many visitors, renting a car is often the best way to travel around the Big Island of Hawaii. Granted, guided tours certainly have many advantages over independent travel, but there may be times when you simply want to sightsee and travel on your schedule. Whether you’re looking for a sporty convertible to feel the Big Island tradewinds through your hair or a minivan for the entire family, you’ll surely find the perfect ride for your needs on the Big Island.

Before you price a rental: see the all-in number

The teaser rate is rarely what you pay. Our Rental Car Cost Calculator shows the real total with Hawaiʻi’s state surcharge, airport concession fee, the LDW vs. credit-card insurance call, and live AAA gas prices for Big Island.

Typical drive times from Kona (KOA)
Destination Drive TimeDistance
Kailua-Kona town 10–15 min~9 mi
Hāpuna Beach (Kohala Coast) ~45 min~26 mi
Waimea town ~1 hr~38 mi
Waipiʻo Valley overlook ~1.5 hr~60 mi
Hilo 1.5–2 hr~77 mi
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park 2–2.5 hr~106 mi

Realistic ranges in light traffic — rush hour, surf days, and the Road to Hāna run longer. See full Big Island driving directions »

Discount Big Island Car Rentals

Discount Hawaii Car Rental is where we recommend visitors go to book their Big Island of Hawaii vehicle rentals.

They offer the best deals with Big Island of Hawaii rental cars because they provide a comparison of all the major car rental businesses on the Big Island.

After being in business for 20 years in Hawaii, they know what visitors are looking for in Big Island vehicle rentals. 

They offer no prepayment, no cancellation charges, and they guarantee reservations.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you book or buy through links on this page. See our Ad Disclosures & Standards.