Downtown Honolulu Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Honolulu

Renting a car in Downtown Honolulu provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. This neighborhood is an ideal base for sightseeing, allowing you to visit key attractions such as the historic Aloha Tower and Iolani Palace, both located in Downtown Honolulu. If you're looking to enjoy beach experiences, Waikiki Beach is conveniently located just 5 km away, making it easy to plan a day in the sun.

A rental car is especially beneficial for families and those with outdoor plans, as it allows for easy luggage management and ensures everyone can travel together comfortably. With a vehicle, you can also explore nearby neighborhoods such as Kaka'ako, which is less than 1 km away, and Waikiki, located 3 km from Downtown. This makes it convenient to experience popular destinations like the Honolulu Harbor and Diamond Head. Overall, having a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Downtown Honolulu, giving you the ability to create flexible travel plans and enjoy all that this vibrant area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Honolulu

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice among renters in Downtown Honolulu, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal selection for couples or families looking to explore the area comfortably. With its balance of space and fuel efficiency, the Midsize is perfect for those who want to travel at their own pace while enjoying the freedom of having a vehicle.
• Fullsize: For families or groups, the Fullsize car is highly booked in Downtown Honolulu, offering room for up to 5 travellers and the capacity to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those who require extra space for luggage, ensuring everyone can travel comfortably without the hassle of limited storage. The Fullsize option is perfect for those planning extended trips or outings.
• Standard Convertible: Ideal for couples or business travellers, the Standard Convertible provides seating for 4 and can accommodate 2 medium suitcases. This option allows renters to enjoy a stylish driving experience while exploring Downtown Honolulu. The open-top feature adds an element of fun and relaxation, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a combination of comfort and a touch of luxury during their travels.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Honolulu

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers, boasting 4 rental locations, with the nearest being only 1 km away from Downtown Honolulu. Customers appreciate their friendly service and the cleanliness of the vehicles. With an overall rating of 8 out of 10, Enterprise is known for providing service as expected, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore the area. The most booked cars with this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize, catering to various travel needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a convenient option with its location situated 3 km away from Downtown Honolulu. It is well-regarded for its competitive pricing and dependable service. Travellers frequently choose Midsize and Compact cars from Thrifty, which are ideal for navigating the vibrant streets of Honolulu. This supplier is a solid option for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is another excellent choice, with its rental location also 3 km from Downtown Honolulu. Customers appreciate the selection of vehicles, particularly the Standard Convertible and Midsize SUV, which provide a fun and comfortable driving experience. Alamo is noted for its efficiency and customer service, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy their time in Hawaii with ease.

Where to stay around Downtown Honolulu

• Downtown Honolulu: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Downtown Honolulu is the heart of the city, offering easy access to shopping areas and local attractions. Visitors can explore cultural sites and enjoy the scenic views of the nearby beach and tourist precinct. It's a great base for families and outdoor enthusiasts, as nearby highlights include the beautiful Honolulu Harbor and the lively Waikiki Beach, both just a short distance away.
• Waikiki: Located only 3 km from Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki is a popular neighbourhood renowned for its stunning beach and array of dining options. This area is perfect for families and outdoor lovers, with attractions like Waikiki Beach and the iconic Diamond Head volcano nearby. The Waikiki Beach Walk provides an excellent esplanade for leisurely strolls, making it a fantastic spot for a relaxing holiday experience.
• South O'ahu: Situated 6 km away from Downtown Honolulu, South O'ahu offers a blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The area boasts access to gorgeous beaches, including the famous Waikiki Beach, and scenic spots like Diamond Head. Visitors will find a variety of shopping centres and areas, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to stay while exploring the beautiful landscapes and attractions of Hawaii.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Honolulu

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary according to demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to secure lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers younger than 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which can be acceptable as well; just ensure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Honolulu

The best value period for renting a car in and around Downtown Honolulu is November, when prices are low and demand is moderate. April is another good choice, as it tends to have slightly low prices with average demand. February, however, is the busiest month, with higher demand and slightly lower prices, while July stands out as the most expensive period, characterised by slightly high prices and average demand. June through August see a mix of slightly high prices and moderate demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
March	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
April	73.8°F (23.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High