Honolulu Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Honolulu

Renting a car in Honolulu offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit popular attractions such as Waikiki Beach, known for its stunning shoreline, and Honolulu Harbor, which provides beautiful scenery. Enjoy the esplanade of Waikiki Beach Walk, perfect for outdoor family activities and romantic strolls.

A car rental is particularly beneficial for families or travellers with luggage, allowing for easy management of your belongings while keeping everyone together. You can conveniently explore neighbourhoods like Waikiki, where you can experience both Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, or visit Ala Moana, home to Ala Moana Beach Park and Honolulu Harbor. Having a car makes it straightforward to access these destinations without relying on public transportation. Whether you're planning a day at the beach or a scenic drive, renting a car in Honolulu ensures a comfortable and flexible travel experience throughout your stay.

Most popular car rentals in Honolulu

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers in Honolulu, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate the extra space and versatility. With a Midsize SUV, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings of Honolulu at your own pace.
• Standard: The Standard vehicle is another highly booked option in Honolulu, also seating up to 5 travellers and accommodating 3 large suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples and families looking for a comfortable ride without compromising on space. With the Standard option, you can travel conveniently around the city while having enough room for your belongings, making it an excellent choice for your trip.
• Fullsize: If you need even more space, the Fullsize car is the top option for larger families or groups. Accommodating up to 5 travellers, it provides room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a great selection for those who appreciate extra luggage capacity. The Fullsize car ensures that everyone has ample room for comfort during your travels, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in Honolulu.

Top rated car suppliers in Honolulu

• Sixt: Sixt has 3 rental locations in the Honolulu area, making it easily accessible for travellers. With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Sixt is praised for its friendly service, short wait times, and reliable service. The most popular vehicles among customers are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, perfect for those looking to explore Honolulu and its surroundings in comfort.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car also boasts 3 convenient rental locations in Honolulu. Known for its friendly service and a solid rating of 7 out of 10, Alamo provides a pleasant rental experience. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles are the most booked options, offering ample space for luggage and a comfortable ride while discovering the beautiful island.
• Budget: Budget features 3 rental locations within Honolulu, ensuring easy access for visitors. While specific ratings are not provided, Budget is recognized for its value, offering a range of vehicles that include Midsize and Standard options. This makes it a great choice for travellers looking to manage their budget while still enjoying the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Where to stay in Honolulu

• Waikiki: A vibrant neighbourhood in Honolulu, Waikiki is renowned for its outdoor, family, and beach experiences. It is home to the famous Waikiki Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water activities. The area is also close to Diamond Head, a volcano offering stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Visitors can explore the Waikiki Beach Walk, an esplanade ideal for leisurely strolls with family. With a variety of shopping malls and dining options nearby, Waikiki is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in beach culture and local amenities.
• Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis: This neighbourhood is celebrated for its outdoor and scenic experiences. It encompasses the iconic Diamond Head volcano, which provides breathtaking views and adventure activities. Kaimana Beach is another nearby beach that offers a tranquil setting for families. Visitors can also enjoy educational venues and shopping facilities within the area. With its combination of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis is a great option for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
• Ala Moana: Known for its vibrant city atmosphere, Ala Moana is a family-friendly neighbourhood that boasts a plethora of shopping options. Ala Moana Beach Park offers a lovely urban park experience, where families can enjoy outdoor activities while taking in views of the ocean. The area is also conveniently located near Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Harbor, enhancing its appeal for those interested in beach and scenic experiences. Ala Moana is ideal for travellers looking for a combination of city life and outdoor enjoyment.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, use Expedia's filters to help you identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower prices and ensures better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before completing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers added peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to include car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Honolulu

The best value period to rent a car in Honolulu is November, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. October also offers similar pricing and demand characteristics, making it another good option. June through August tend to see slightly higher prices and moderate demand, with July being the most expensive month. January to March is typically the busiest and priciest time for rentals, as demand runs high during these months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
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	Average
May	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
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	Average	Average